Betrayal and Forgiveness

Have you ever felt betrayed by a friend or family member?  Have you ever betrayed a friend or family member?  I believe this happens more often than we'd like to admit.  It can be as simple as being involved in a gossip circle, as the producer, witness or recipient of it.  The latter can be very hurtful, and the results may be irreversible for the recipient.  However, the way we handle it can make a difference.  The Story of Joseph, in the book of Genesis, is a perfect example.

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Joseph was the son of the Jacob, an elderly man, and his previously barren wife Rachel.  Jacob had older children from other women in his life.  However, the young, bright and handsome Joseph enjoyed a beautiful life at home as his father's favorite son.  His older brothers, in a rage of jealousy, sold him to Egyptian slave traders.

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Although the Egyptians practiced polytheism at the time, Joseph's faith in the Lord kept him safe and lead him to a position of power.  First, he went from being a slave to a prisoner, when he was falsely accused of sexual assault.  Then, because of his ability to interpret dreams, he was pardoned and released by the Pharaoh, as well as moved to a powerful position in Egypt's court.

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Joseph's interpretation of the Pharaoh's recurring dreams about 7 years of abundance followed by 7 years of scarceness, lead Egypt to prepare for a major famine.  The latter forced Joseph's brothers to go to Egypt to plead for food.  Joseph, who was in charge of Egypt's food supplies, was forced to confront his brothers.  Although conflicted, his knowledge of the Lord helped him forgive his brothers and reunite with his father.

This is a powerful story of betrayal and forgiveness, as well as of how love and faith in the Lord our God can help overcome obstacles in life.  May we never forget that none of us are perfect, and that as the Lord's sheep, we must forgive others as he has forgiven us.  Blessings!