The End of the Beginning

Genesis 45-47

Genesis is the "origin of something", the beginning.  Today, we look at the ending of our beginning book of the Bible.

Do you believe that we all have a purpose, something God has created us to do?  Joseph did.  In 45:5-8, he confirms and explains this.  He gives us insight into how he survived his hardships.  He always kept in mind God's will above his own.  He always left himself open to be part of a bigger plan.  It also helped him to forgive his brothers for some very unthinkable wrongs.  He just went beyond the actions of the humans and put the purpose of it all on God's bigger plan.  If you think about how your life affects others and might be used to help others, it often helps to chase away to depression and disappointment of what may be happening now.  It can also help to prevent bitterness and hatred from growing.  Joseph is a great example of forgiveness and constant hope for better things.

So much of the Jewish history is grounded in these final books.  The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is established.  The 12 tribes of Judah are given their back story, which will continue through the next 4 books completing The Pentetauch or the first 5 books of Moses.  The setting for Moses' story in Exodus is described.  And a beautiful story of a family's relationship and growth is told full-fold. 

Don't you love a story with a good ending?  And don't you enjoy a sequel in a series.  We've enjoyed starting this series together.  Hope you keep reading!

May God bless our beginnings, our middles, and our endings!!