We last left father Jacob putting his foot down, refusing to let his sons return to Egypt with his beloved son, Benjamin. As we begin today, the grain they had brought from Egypt has all been used up. Jacob is ready for the sons to go back and purchase more.

This time, Judah is the one to speak up. He reminds Jacob that they cannot go back to Egypt without Benjamin. As often happens, when we don’t like the circumstances, we question the whys, knowing full well that it won’t change the situation.

Jacob asks, “Why did you bring this trouble on me by telling the man you had another brother?” Genesis 43:6

Once again, Judah goes over the whole story, step by step, explaining that they simply answered the man’s questions. They had no idea the man would hold Simeon and demand the younger brother be brought back to Egypt. Like Reuben, Judah makes a passionate plea—

“Send the boy along with me and we will go at once, so that we and you and our children may live and not die. I will guarantee his safety; you can hold me personally responsible for him. As it is, if we had not delayed, we could have gone and returned home twice.” Genesis 43:8-10

Hmm, getting a little edgy—and hungry!

Jacob finally relents, sending them on their way with gifts of balm, honey, spices, myrrh, pistachio nuts, and almonds. And, of course, money for the grain plus the money that was “left in the sacks.” And yes, Benjamin goes, too!

When Joseph sees his brother Benjamin, he instructs his steward to take the men to his house, slaughter an animal, and prepare dinner. They will eat with Joseph at noon.

Remember, Joseph is still speaking in the Egyptian language, so the brothers have no idea what’s up next. When they are taken to Joseph’s house the suspense builds. They reason,

“We were brought here because of the silver that was put back in our sacks the first time. He wants to attack us and overpower us and seize us as slaves and take our donkeys.” Genesis 43:18

Nothing is as great as the fear of the unknown. One exaggeration leads to another.

Have you ever been told that a second lab test will be needed? Or your teenager is three hours past her curfew? Or the boss called you in for an unexpected meeting? Often our first response is to wonder what doom is about to befall us.

The brothers approach the steward who evidently can speak their language. He assures them that everything is all right. He brings Simeon to them, brings water to wash their feet, and fodder for their donkeys.

When Joseph comes home, they present their gifts and bow down to the ground before him. And so, the dream Joseph had so long ago has come to fruition. “My sheave rose up and your sheaves bowed down to my sheave.”

When will Joseph reveal himself? He’s still not quite ready. Hang on!

~ Joyce ~