Genesis 46:29 And Joseph prepared his chariot and went up to Goshen to meet his father Israel as soon as he appeared before him, he fell on his neck and wept on his neck a long time.
As I read this account, I’m reminded of the reunion of the prodigal son and his father. I’m going to do a compare and contrast of the two reunions.
Both sons lived through some difficult experiences. Joseph was innocent and was a victim of circumstances. He was sold into slavery by his brothers. He was wrongly charged with a crime by Potifar’s wife. He spent two extra years in prison, because the cup bearer forgot about him. The prodigal son’s difficulties were self generated. He chose bad friends. They helped him spend all his money and abandoned him when it was gone. He was homeless and lived in poverty. His job was an insult to his jewish heritage, feeding and caring for pigs.
Their reasons for leaving home were different. The prodigal left home, because he was discontent with life there and he yearned for what the world had to offer. Joseph loved his place at home and wouldn’t have left. His departure was by criminal behavior motivated by jealousy, deceit and slavery.
The way they spent their lives were very different. The prodigal lived irresponsibly in a way that was contrary to his upbringing. He invested in all the vices. He also lived in a manner that didn’t bring any income. It was just a matter of time before he was in a bad place. It’s the foolishness of youth that mandates entrance into the school of hard knocks. Joseph was mature and used his talents to make a living. Those that benefited from his efforts promoted him into management. He lived in a manner which was congruent with his upbringing which would have made his father proud.
The reunions were similar. While the prodigal anticipated shame, he was welcomed by a loving, overwhelmed with joy, father. Joseph’s reunion was more than either could have hoped for. They were two good people that loved eachother intensely who had assumed the other was dead.
Lord, may we live our life like Joseph and not need the school of hard knocks. Let our entrance into heaven be a wonderful reunion with You and loved ones.