After the death of Jacob, we read in Genesis 50 that Joseph requested that his father be buried in the land of Canaan. Since Joseph was in good standing with Pharaoh, he was granted his wish. So Joseph, along with his brothers and the servants of Pharaoh took the embalmed body of Jacob to the land of Canaan to be buried.

Upon their return to Egypt, Joseph’s brothers were concerned that he would take revenge on them for what they had done in the past. Joseph didn’t take revenge but instead explained that God had used the situation to help save their people. He reassured his brothers; blessing them with gentleness and telling them that their families would be provided for.

Joseph influenced those around him with his gentleness and compassion. We should strive to do the same when wronged. The best thing we can do when someone hurts us in some way is to forgive. What holds us back is when we let a past discomfort affect our future.

What we make happen for others will be given back to us. As is the case with Joseph, life can throw us some curve balls but at the end of it all, our thoughts of someday being with the Lord in paradise outshines the difficulties we face from time to time. So this day with God, give a smile and a smile will be given back; act kind and receive kindness back from others. 

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