Needful Dreamers

Genesis 40

Joseph makes an astounding offer in verse 8. He says interpretation of dreams belongs to God, and then says, “Tell me your dreams” (emphasis mine). How can this be?

I think it can be because the dreams described in this chapter are not of principle concern (although obviously they are to the butler and baker). As part of the larger story they serve to help set the scene for what will transpire in chapter 41. There is one big question underlying it all, and that has to do with the fulfillment of the dream of Joseph that he would be ruler, even over his own family. That dream colours our reading of everything else. The Giver and Interpreter of Dreams has given Joseph a dream to which all other dreams along the way are subordinate. The kind of dream I might have, say, for my church, does not depend on me at all. It’s my privilege to have a part in it. Joseph and his dream are inseparable. That, along just having a very special gift for dreams and their understanding, may be why he could answer the way he did in verse 8.

And yet it is so touching that Joseph, even with the power delegated to him, is also needful (verses 14-15, 23). How much more is interdependence true for those of us who have shared responsibility for Jesus’ dream for his church (Matthew 28:16-20)?

Prayer:
Jesus, you have a dream for your church. You have a dream for each one of us. Purify our vision and desires to more truly part of what you dream for us. Amen.