March 10, 2023

 

Genesis 37:3-4, 12-28; Psalm 17:1-8, Matthew 21:33-46; Romans 2:25 – 3:18

 

As I read thru these passages what jumps out at me is God’s grace  – was, is and will be.  He brings what’s right at the right time. 

 

Joseph had his days.  As I read thru his experience and I wondered how many times he was on top of things but also how many times things seemed to really go wrong.

Great love of his Father, fantastic dreams.

Brothers were so jealous to the point of plotting his death.

Fortunately Reuben stepped in and he got thrown into a cistern, which happened to be dry, instead of getting killed.

The brothers decided to pulled him out of the cistern (Joseph probably was excited, maybe thinking they changed their minds) but alas it was to be sold to some wanderers as a slave.  Joseph probably wasn’t thinking about those amazing dreams at that point.  How things worked out!

 

3 months ago the car was fixed and we were ready to begin the amazing journey of retirement.  We had a plan.  BAM!  I slid into a couple of trees. Everything changed, in an instant.  The car totalled, laying awake hurting, feeling incredibly alone, so unsure, so questioning, waiting for the doctor.  Lots of time to think – Yes lots of pity party time.  Still in a brace but with the wonderful help of a loving husband and son but mostly an amazing God what an incredible time it’s been. What an experience!  I’ve learnt so much, seen so much (visits to hospital really open your eyes to so much more and worse hurting). The simplest things can be really difficult but all is possible. Today and in the days to come I know beyond a shadow of doubt - How great is God’s Grace – how incredibly loving, kind and patient – so forgiving and encouraging.

 

Jesus knew what was coming, knew the plan, those around even how close they were to him not so much.  Yet He proceeded, never faltering.  Each step closer to His ultimate destination – Forgiveness of all sin.  For me, for you – Not earned or deserving.  But that’s not the end of the story – His love, kindness, wisdom, understanding, forgiveness – GRACE continues day by day.

 

We don’t know what tomorrow brings but we do know who holds tomorrow!

 

- Diane Starrenburg