Do you know why the front windshield is way bigger than your rearview mirror? Because you are supposed to go forward, not backwards! Pastor Ken went on to tell us last Sunday that, what’s happened in our past, hopefully has been a lesson that we have learnt from, and that we shouldn’t let it drag us down. This really resonated with me.
The story of Joseph came to mind because it clearly applies to this. This is one of the most amazing stories of the Bible. It’s is a story of loss, betrayal, tragedy, and redemption. In my opinion, what makes the story so amazing is that, in the end, it illustrates the amazing power of forgiving.
Joseph went from favorite son to prisoner in Egypt. Talk about loss! How was he able to focus on the future and not the past? How was he able to move on from the bleak present he found himself in and look ahead? How was he able to go forward instead of dwelling on how in the world he ended up where he was? I truly believe that Joseph discovered the power of forgiveness.
First, I think Joseph had to find He had to forgive God. Now, of course, God doesn’t need forgiveness. But, like most of us, I can imagine that at one point Joseph must have found himself asking himself, How could God do this to me??? How can He be so cruel with me??? At one point, Joseph must have understood that there was a reason for his ordeal. He must have come to the understanding that there was an ulterior purpose that would glorify God with his life.
Secondly, Joseph must come to the point when he needed to forgive himself. We Jews are very prone to guilt! I can imagine Joseph asking himself What did I do wrong? Should I have told my family about my dream that one day they would serve me? Could I have done something different to avoid Potiphars’ wife accusations? Once again, Joseph was able to put that behind and concentrate in the future because he must have forgiven himself.
Finally, Joseph was able to forgive his brothers. Can you imagine after all those years of loneliness, of living in a strange land, of finding himself in excruciating situations, suddenly he found himself in front of those who had caused all that?? He had the power, the opportunity and why not, the justification to get back at them! But no, Joseph was able to forgive his brothers.
As a result of forgiveness, Joseph was able to be a blessing to all his people as Israel was saved from catastrophe when they emigrated to Egypt. Because of forgiveness, Joseph would go into history as the man who saved Israel. Because of forgiveness, he was able to put the painful past behind and look forward so he could go on. And, because of the power of forgiveness, he was able to be a blessing to others.
May we remember this as we struggle with our past. May we find the power of forgiveness so we can move on, bring blessing to our lives and the lives of others.
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