Remember, you reap what you sow!  The elder brothers of Joseph sold him into slavery and deceived their aged father, Israel, about the circumstances. Later in life, Joseph rose to be second in command of all Egypt and his brothers come to Egypt seeking food. Joseph recognized them but they did not recognize him. Now they stand before Joseph who has power and position over his brothers, and they stand before him powerless. How will Joseph utilize his power and position?

The great beauty of this story is that Joseph broke the cycle of malice, revenge, hatred, and violence (Genesis 45:1-16).  Joseph reaches out in compassion, forgiveness, and reconciliation!  This is also the story of God’s love revealed in Jesus Christ: Through forgiveness God reaches out to us in reconciliation and embrace.

What about our reconciliation with others?  Perhaps, at times, the least we can do is not be malicious and mean to those from whom we are estranged. Nevertheless, are you ready to seek to be reconciled with others as much as you are able? The story of Joseph tells us that it is possible. The story of Jesus tells us it is possible. The stories of Joseph and Jesus tell us that the cycles of malice, revenge, hatred, and violence are broken!  May we live out our lives with that Good News!