An Unusual Surprise

Read: Genesis 44

Joseph planned an unusual surprise for his brothers as they returned to their father’s house after having spent time in Egypt. He planted his silver cup in young Benjamin’s bag and sent them on their way. Afterward, he sent his servant after them to announce the robbery of his personal chalice and the brothers could not imagine that they would find it in their sacks, and least of all in Benjamin’s sack However, the cup was found and they went back to Egypt to beg for mercy and try to explain the unexplainable. Joseph told them that Benjamin would have to stay in Egypt and serve him while they returned to Egypt.

It is then that the elder brother, Judah, began to ask for mercy and understanding as he unraveled his story about their father’s love for Benjamin and his grief over his other son, Joseph, who was presumed dead. Judah assured him that his father would die if his son Benjamin did not return. He had only been permitted to come because Joseph had insisted that for them to ask for more food, Benjamin had to come with them.

Of course, all this was planned by Joseph and he had a motive in mind which will be revealed in the next devotional. Joseph wants to be reunited to his entire family. Yes, it was an unusual surprise to find the stolen cup in Benjamin’s bag but not near as big as the surprise that awaited them a few minutes later……

Author: Kay Smith