Devotion 9.7.26

Genesis 50:20

"20 As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today." Joseph as he reveals himself to his brothers

On this date in 2001, President George W Bush, in his first year in office, expressed concern over the US economy. Microsoft and the Justice Department issued statements about its ongoing case. Michael Jackson held a star-studded celebration on the 30th anniversary of his career.

A scan of the headlines that day remind me of how little news was really going on in that time. In a few days, the world would change in an instant, permanently and irrevocably. 

These are defining moments that are generational. Joesph experienced this first hand. What was a shocking and defining moment for he and his family became a foundational piece for the nation of Israel and the world.

As he revealed himself to his brothers in perhaps one of the more dramatic stories in scripture, he states that the brothers' act,, intended for evil, was used by God for the greater good and advancement of his plan.

We may still be searching for that pearl in the midst of the chaos created almost 25 years ago, but the pearl might be right in front of us too.

Pray with me: Gracious God, Be with me as I try to make meaning of things that happen in my life, to me personally or to us as a community. Help me to find and see you in these things, which may not be good. Help me to see how these things may actually be turned to benefit you through the sharing of your Word. In Christ's name, Amen.

Hope Men's Ministry is a ministry in service to Hope Lutheran Church and School. Our purpose is to grow, unite, and share God's Word to all men through meaningful activities. These activities center on fellowship, service, conversation, prayer, study and devotion as we seek to become men of God as He created us to be.