Nougat 13

We end this season of reflection on life lessons from Joseph, by looking at the grand reunion. Consider today’s Holy Nougat

“Joseph harnessed his chariot and went up to Goshen to meet his father Israel. As soon as he appeared before him, he fell upon his neck, and wept on his neck for some time. Then Israel said to Joseph, “At this time I am ready to die, after seeing your face in person—for you’re still alive!”” Genesis‬ ‭46:29-30‬ ‭TLV‬‬

““And he got up and went to his own father. But while he was still far away, his father saw him and felt compassion. He ran and fell on his neck and kissed him.” Luke‬ ‭15:20‬ ‭TLV‬‬

Jacob did not KNOW that his favorite still lived – he had NO reason to disbelieve his sons’ story. We don’t even know that the truth was ever told to him.

Having seen his son however, Jacob was beyond himself with joy! And what a reunion! Those were mixed feelings intertwined in those tears – joy in seeing his boy was truly alive, regret for all the lost years, elation at his son’s success, and a sense of completion at having found each other once again. When they faced each other, when Jacob confirmed Joseph was alive; he was ready to face anything – even death.

In a similar yet different manner, we find a grand reunion between father and son in Luke15. Albeit that son CHOSE his own path and failed; and THEN returned home – penniless and broken. But he KNEW he would find refuge there. He knew his father’s heart. What he didn’t expect perhaps, was seeing his father meeting him a ways off to greet him and protect him from the wages (consequences of his) of disrespect!

Joseph’s papa Jacob and the Lucan papa both help us understand the extent of God’s love. God pines after us whether we are spirited away or choose to walk away from all God has in store for us. And when we return to God – what a blessed teary-eyed celebration

Lord, wherever we are; help us to choose to stay in Your presence where there is truly fullness of joy.

Help us to share our experience of Your healing forgiveness and mercy with others who are still making their way back home. Have Your way as we bask in the glory of being with You dear Jesus we pray; amen

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May all we seek be found in Christ