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Genesis 44

The reason for Joseph’s cruel game is evident. The one who was wronged in the past wants to see how the brothers will now conduct themselves, with another younger brother as the one potentially to be sacrificed.

The response of the brothers to this crisis is deeply moving. On discovery of the cup, they could have said, “Benjamin, how could you!” But they care, in the first instance, for their father, whose demise in utter grief they may immediately foresee; and they truly love their brother.

Judah’s appeal to Joseph for Benjamin is an outpouring of love framed in courtly language. It is a very impressive speech, in that you just know there is intense emotion here. He exercises a restraint, however, that would be impossible for most of us, for the sake of sustaining the necessary (as he would see it) respect and decorum that will keep the matter from being cut off.

The brothers pass the test. An astounding revelation is about to occur

Prayer:
So, Lord, we’re not leopards after all. What implications would we set loose if we really believed that people can change? In Jesus’ name I ask it. Amen.