Genesis 45:1-15

Pentecost + 9 - Year A

Genesis 45:1-15

The second in command, economic advisor par excellance, still identifies as, “I am Joseph.” His concern is not just about surviving a coming famine, but, “Is my father still alive?”

Finally, with those who betrayed him he makes an audacious claim, “I am your brother.”

Joseph, Jacob’s son, brother to eleven, this Joseph, sees his task, “Sent to keep alive many survivors.”

There are many ways to try to keep many alive. These can contain the infamous, “We had to destroy the village to save the village.” Under Joseph’s leadership, many lost their land and freedom for a better chance at survival. Were they better off? Certainly his family became better off, until Joseph’s efficient planning was forgotten.

How might you keep “many alive” this day? How might you keep yourself alive this day? One way is to refuse to label and be labeled. Drop the titles; claim your name.