# 411 It Was Sorta Like Church

The Book of Genesis

Day 411

Ge 43:23 But he said, "Peace be with you, do not be afraid. Your God and the God of your father has given you treasure in your sacks; I had your money." Then he brought Simeon out to them.  24 So the man brought the men into Joseph's house and gave them water, and they washed their feet; and he gave their donkeys feed.  25 Then they made the present ready for Joseph's coming at noon, for they heard that they would eat bread there.  26 And when Joseph came home, they brought him the present which was in their hand into the house, and bowed down before him to the earth.

Notice how the tone of the encounter with Joseph has changed. The brothers entered the house of Joseph with guilt and fear, but the servant has calmed their fears and extended the peace of God to them. Simeon was brought out to them, evidently no worse for the wear. Things are looking up! The men are given water to wash their feet, their donkey’s are given feed. These are great signs of hospitality and acceptance.

Word reaches them that they would be doing lunch with Joseph at noon, so they took some extra time to make their present ready for Joseph. They wanted it to look and be the best. Quite a change from when they first arrived, wouldn’t you say?

When you think about it, this whole scenario is sorta like church. Some people arrive on Sunday with their own packages of fear and guilt. The gospel is preached, the peace of God or forgiveness of sins is offered to all and people are set free. Hospitality is prevalent. Gifts are brought and offered, and there is great anticipation of a holy meal with Jesus.

What a difference the gospel has made in the attitude of the brothers! Having received the peace of God offered to them, they prepare their gift with love and kindness, gratitude and excellence. Think about it. Without the peace of God extended to them and received, what do you think their attitude of giving would’ve been?  It would’ve been out of fear, and that my friend, is not an offering, that’s a ransom and it has no place alongside the gospel. 

Forgiveness of sins is not for sale! It cannot be purchased with money or good works. It can only be received as the gift it truly is from the Father through His Son Jesus Christ.