Listen

“Hurry! Go back to your father. Tell him this is what your son Joseph says: ‘God has made me master of all of Egypt. Come down to me. Don’t delay. You may live in the land of Goshen, so you will be near me, your children, your grandchildren, your flocks, your herds, and everyone with you. I will support you there, so you, your household, and everyone with you won’t starve, since the famine will still last five years.’”

He kissed all of his brothers and wept, embracing them. After that, his brothers were finally able to talk to him.

Genesis 45:9-11, 15

Think

Transformed by his faith and vocation, Joseph went from being a betrayed brother to a leader called to serve his nation. Imagine for a moment becoming the leader of your nation. From humble beginnings, Joseph became a powerful leader. God called him to great things, and God calls us to great things as well. We may not lead a nation, but God can work through us to make a difference in the world.

This passage reminds us that God has a plan of redemption for every age and for every nation. We may see difficult things happening in our nation. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially when we feel like we don’t have the power to change what’s happening. How can we join God’s work of justice and compassion? When it seems like patriotism is the only way to love our nation, let us remember that real love involves a deep commitment to justice and the wellbeing of all inhabitants of our country.

Samuel Estrella Molina

Question to Ponder:

How can you contribute to the well-being of your nation through love and justice?

Pray

Lord, give me a heart that seeks justice for all, reflecting your redeeming love. Amen.

Go

Go out into the world with the awareness that you are being created to love, serve, and live in connection with all.