Today’s first reading speaks of Joseph’s response to his brothers when they came to Egypt during the famine. What drove Joseph to respond with such compassion? Wasn’t this the perfect moment for revenge, to settle the score with those who betrayed him? Despite enduring thirteen years of slavery and hardship, Joseph remained unbittered. He never took his gift of wisdom for granted, always giving credit to God as the source of his insight. Joseph’s reaction is different from the feelings many of us would have when we struggle with our siblings. His humility, love for God, and unwavering faith enabled him to act this way. God was with Joseph, showing him steadfast love and granting him favor—as a slave, a prisoner, and later as the governor over Egypt. Let us seek the counsel of God our Father through his living Word and Spirit, so that our faith is built up to become like that of Joseph’s. May the leaven rising from within us, be a reflection of God’s steadfast love.

PRAYER: Abba Father, give me a heart like Joseph’s, so I may become a vessel of love and glorify your name in all circumstances. Amen