January 29th

January 29th -- Genesis 45 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis%2045&version=NLT)

Joseph reveals his identity (FINALLY)

So Joseph, since he was in the room with his brothers already, sends everyone else away, and then starts crying and talking to his brothers. Also, it's important to note that the Egyptians there heard him and the word reached the Palace. When Joseph tells his brothers who he is, they're so shocked he has to explain it again.

Joseph sends them all back, though, to get their families and move here, where Joseph could care for them better.

So, Pharaoh also hears the men are Joseph's brothers, and Pharaoh tells Joseph to get them all to come and they will be given Egypt's finest. So Pharaoh really goes ahead and spoils them.

His brothers go back and tell their families the news. Jacob is THRILLED to learn that Joseph is still alive. Well, he had to believe it first, which took a bit, but the things Pharaoh had sent along helped as proof.  Jacob then insists he goes and sees Joseph before he dies.

I like that Joseph FINALLY told his brothers who he was. His hiding it was, in a way, rather decietful. I'm still not entirely sure WHY he did it, instead of just telling them and having them bring Jacob and all their families over...

I also find it a bit odd that Pharaoh treats them all so well. He must have figured out when he learned who Joseph's brothers were that they were not Egpytian,  so why would he treat them with the best of Egypt? I guess it was just God blessing them...

Well, that's all, folks!
God bless!