Fourth Sunday of Lent, March 11, 2018 Genesis 41:53-57
After years of frustration, Joseph is exalted to oversee the storage and distribution of Egypt’s great harvest. As the years of famine begin to take their toll, there is enough surplus to share with those in need throughout all the earth. In hard times, those who have should share with those who have not. Here is comfort: after long periods of suffering, at just the right time the Lord will give help to His people, just as He did for Joseph. Through His Son, Jesus, God rules over us and gives us what we need; pardon, provision, and peace. 1
At the sight of all of his brothers, Joseph became so emotional. He had to leave the room to weep. When it got to the point where he could no longer take it, Joseph admitted to his brothers that he was, in fact, their brother. And how long had it been since he had last seen his brothers? Close to a quarter century. Close to twenty-two years! Yet because of grace, and only by grace, the family was restored. The Lord is still in the business of restoring families; healing old wounds, and granting comfort to those who suffer. During Lent we attempt to reconcile. May it start with the people closest to you; family members, neighbors, co-workers, friends.
Hymn: O Darkest Woe (Lutheran Service Book 448:7)
O Jesus Christ,
Who sacrificed
Thy life for lifeless mortals;
Be my life in death and bring
Me to heaven’s portals!
Heavenly Father, give us this day our daily bread, and deliver us from evil, for Jesus’ sake. Amen
Gracious Father, whose blessed Son Jesus Christ came down from heaven to be the true bread, which gives life to the world: Evermore give me this bread, that he may live in me, and I in him; who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen 2
1 Luther Study Bible, © 2009 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
2 Collect for the Fourth Sunday in Lent, http://www.liturgies.net/Lent/LentenCollects.htm
No comments:
Post a Comment