Nougat 27

We close our reflections on Joseph and his interpretation of pharaoh’s dream with Today’s Holy Nougat Note that it wasn’t Joseph’s dream that was interpreted by Joseph – he’d already done that some 12 or so years prior. Yet, with this act of obedience, the very real fulfillment of his own dream was set in motion.

“and the seven years of famine began to come, just as Joseph had said. There was famine in every country, but throughout the land of Egypt there was bread. When all the land of Egypt was famished, the people cried to Pharaoh for bread. Pharaoh said to all the Egyptians, “Go to Joseph; what he says to you, do.”” ‭‭Genesis‬ ‭41‬:‭54‬-‭55‬ ‭NRSV‬‬

High and Lifted Up

Prisoner to Prime minister! A real rags to riches story! As I typed my thoughts ran to the cup bearer and to Potiphar. How did they feel to see Joseph occupy the new role? Seriously. Was the cup bearer happy that he ‘facilitated’ Joseph’s release from prison and, by extension, His promotion? Did he expect Joseph to be deferential to him? I wonder. And Potiphar? If he was still around, was he happy to see Joseph being promoted, given Joseph’s visible spiritual gifts when Joseph worked for him? Did he feel supplanted by Joseph’s new role; was he bitter?

Siblings, the anointing comes at a serious cost. Whether paid through a season of testing, or by Jesus, the anointing of God on our lives is precious. James reminds us in his epistle, ‘humble yourselves before God and truly God will honor you.’ (see chapter 4:10). It begins with our acts of humility. Our willingness to be subjected to God’s plans and purposes.

The malice of his brothers, treachery of Potiphar’s wife, and forgetfulness of the cup bearer are but metaphors for our own life experiences. Yes, it was real for Joseph, and is applicable today; but not necessarily in the exact manner. If we are able to remain focused on what God revealed to us about ourselves, we can withstand the messy tests with a message and a testimony. (And if it is that we don’t yet know God’s plans for us, let us ask believing that God will shore up even at this time.)

Consider that God allowed Joseph to see his dream at least 12 years prior to its fruition so that he would not lose Hope. If we know we will leave an ordeal better than before, it’s a bit easier to withstand. When we see others lifted high, may we be inclined to pray for the healing of their wounds, and to be encouraged that our day will come.

Until then, let’s press on!

—

May all we seek be found in Christ