Nougat 6

It is said that every unfair game is twice played. But what about the heart of the player? More so, what happens when the first round of unfairness is against God’s anointed?

Consider today’s Holy Nougat

“Speaking among themselves, they said, “Clearly we are being punished because of what we did to Joseph long ago. We saw his anguish when he pleaded for his life, but we wouldn’t listen. That’s why we’re in this trouble.” … Then he chose Simeon from among them and had him tied up right before their eyes.” Genesis‬ ‭42:21, 24‬b NLT‬‬

They lived their lie for so long; they might even have believed it. But they also had to live with the consequences of their lies – seeing the impact on their father and wondering whether retribution would come. Ironically, they recognized it when it came.

When being raked over the coals by Joseph, the brothers acknowledged that this was payback. Ironically, they didn’t recognize Joseph, nor did they seem to think he was alive (see ch 44). This doesn’t add up, unless their consciences actually had the capability to work. Hi

In the past, we noted that Reuben and Judah were singled out by name for their cruelty. Further Simeon and Levi, Dinah’s brothers by both parents, were also inclined to meanness when provoked (see ch 34).

These days the entire clan would probably be considered criminal masterminds. If we met undiluted evil in four brothers, and ALL 10 were somewhat complicit in different acts of evil, why was Simeon singled out? We might eliminate Judah and Reuben as they spoke and acted quickly to save Joseph. What then, of Levi – he wasn’t yet officially operating under the mantle of either the firstborn OR the priesthood. So why not Levi? Or Gad, Dan, Asher, Issachar, Naphtali or Zebulun for that matter?

My theory, somewhat corroborated by rabbinical midrash, is that Joseph could identify Simeon as one of his ‘attackers’, ie the mastermind behind the plot to kill him.

(https://www.jewishencyclopedia.com/articles/13676-simeon)

Although it wasn’t true revenge, it could be seen as a means of retribution.

In short, while Joseph was not God, nor is God directly mentioned in this pericope (excerpt from scripture), we are assured that evil has its own reward. When one does ought against God’s anointed – whether ordained or lay – in fact when we plot and scheme against any of God’s creation, it comes at a price.

I will confess with the extent of violence around the world, I am often inclined to say ‘Lord Repay! Repay in vengeance‘; rather than ‘Father forgive!’ But Grace was offered to me and I am praying that God helps me do likewise.

Please be safe. Have a blessed day

—

May all we seek be found in Christ