Did you grow up with brothers and sisters? Did you ever feel like they were the favorite? I would say at times I did. I was the oldest and that always has its own perks. Yet, I was good at testing the waters and trying to stay out of trouble while doing it. I wasn’t always successful and my younger brother was able to learn from my mistakes. He seemed to get all the breaks that I always hoped for.
We all have different family dynamics, and in today’s reading, we see that Joseph, while not the youngest, is seemingly the favorite. The text comes right out and says that Joseph was Jacob’s favorite. I have tried not to have favorites between our children. For me, I have a favorite child to cook with, to watch a football game with, to play music with, and to go shopping with. But overall, no favorites. I love them all equally.
Joseph is a bit of a tattle tale we’re told. He saw his brothers doing some “bad things” and told his father. No doubt the others got in trouble and knew who was responsible. That didn’t help Joseph’s cause. And then there was a special gift. The coat. There was a wonderful musical written about this story. The version I like best stars my childhood heartthrob, Donny Osmond. Here’s a quick clip for you of Joseph’s dream. WATCH HERE.
Dreams have always been intriguing to me. Why do we remember some dreams and not others? Do we all dream? Why are some dreams so real and others far-fetched putting people in places they don’t belong, etc? Some people believe there are hidden meanings in our dreams and messages to be taken. It is clear here that Joseph’s dreams did have a meaning that came true. You’ll see how in the days ahead. For now, Jacob is left wondering what the dreams meant.
The story of Joseph is one we can all identify with to some degree. The story will continue to unfold over the next few days. Be watching for the next part tomorrow! Let me know how Joseph’s story reflects your own story.
Let’s pray. Lord, I thank you for all my children and how they are each different. I thank you for being your “favorite” and that you gave yourself for me. May I live my life in a way that is pleasing to you. May the words that I speak only uplift others. Thank you for giving me the courage and spunk to live abroad and learn a new business model that can help so many more people. Use my words and my testimony to help others know you better. I want people to see you in me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
