We
may see a parallel between Joseph and “the twelve” (his eleven brothers
and his father, Jacob) and Jesus and “the twelve” (His disciples).
Joseph is leading them into a situation of testing. His long-term
intention is to show them that He loves them. Jesus comes to “the
twelve” in their time of testing. He shows them that He loves them.
Joseph reveals his identity to his family brothers. Jesus reveals His
identity – “those who were in the boat worshipped Him, saying, ‘Truly
You are the Son of God’” (Matthew 14:33). In Psalm 12:7,
we have the great declaration of faith – “You, Lord, will keep the
needy safe and will protect us forever from the wicked.” In both stories
– Joseph and Jesus, we see the salvation and protection of God. In Genesis 50:20,
we read of God’s purpose in the events of the Joseph story – “the
saving of many lives.” In the story of “Jesus … walking on the lake”,
the “terrified” disciples became worshipping disciples (Matthew 14:25-26,33). This is what God’s salvation does in our lives.
What God did for His people, Israel, was very great. There is a striking contrast between their slavery in Egypt and their abundance in the promised land. God had multiplied His blessing upon them, just as Jesus did when He turned water into wine (John 2:1-11). If the blessing is to be maintained and increased, we must honour the Lord. We must cry to Him for blessing: "Hear my prayer, O God, listen to the words of my mouth." We must call upon Him with faith: "Surely God is my help; the Lord is the One who sustains me" (Psalm 54:2,4).
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