2006-02-24 - Time Lost, Moments Gained

In Search of a Father's Love - Part 4

It was a sweet reunion. After 17 years Joseph finally got to see his dad Jacob. Not one individual is to blame for Joseph being a part from his family. Jacob could have shown more love to his oldest boys. While around his half brothers, Joseph could have chosen his words more carefully, and the half brothers could have communicated with their dad and younger brother better and been less impulsive. The blame game wasn't evident at the reunion between Jacob and Joseph, father and son, however.

Jacob didn't hold any emotion back when he saw Joseph. "Israel said to Joseph, "I can die now, having seen for myself that you are still alive." (Genesis 46:30 NRS) Jacob must have missed Joseph every day and must have thought about his lost son constantly. If there was any doubt that Joseph was alive it was washed away in that moment. Seeing him again, an impossibility, brought Jacob contentment and peace.

When he met up with his dad "Joseph made ready his chariot and went up to meet his father Israel in Goshen. He presented himself to him, fell on his neck, and wept on his neck a good while."(Genesis 46:29 NRS) The only thing that mattered at that moment was his father. There was no hesitation. Joseph didn't act awkwardly or uneasy when it came to showing love to his father. He didn't spend the time catching up on how the sheep were or what he had missed. Joseph's focus was being with his daddy, the man he last saw as a teenager.

The homecoming of Jacob and Joseph brought to light how my relationship with God needs some improving. How I want to just be in God's presence. I do not want to just talk to Him because I have a need or want to ask Him something. I don't want to seek a favor I just want to be with my heavenly Father, enjoying His company.

God, How joyous You must be, when I come back to You after I've done something foolish or haven't spent much quality time with You. Thankfully You are always there. Even if I lack wisdom or don't know the way, the answer can be found in You. In Jesus name I pray, Amen

Lisa

lisa@cfdevotionals.org
http://www.cfdevotionals.org