Brotherly Love

 God intends for us to love others as we love ourselves. In fact, Jesus commands us, as believers, to love others as He loved us. This is a challenge, at times, but with the help of the Holy Spirit, it is always possible. On top of that kind of brotherly love, there is a special type of love for our family, our own flesh and blood. Joseph had a very special love for his younger brother Benjamin, since he was his only full brother. When he had his other brothers bring Benjamin from Canaan, he was overcome by emotion upon seeing him. (Genesis 43:30,31) He had to hurry to his chamber and weep because he was deeply stirred. Then, Joseph washed his face, controlled himself, and told his servants to serve the meal to his brothers at his home. This is a very touching moment considering all Joseph had been through.

Joseph had been away from his family for more than 13 years when his brothers came to buy food in Egypt. He recognized them, but they did not recognize Joseph. I want us all to think of the emotions that must have filled Joseph's heart upon their reunion. Joseph still loved those brothers, even though they had sold him into slavery and caused him much suffering. That is a sign of the brotherly love the Lord has placed in all of us. Yes, we love our family members the most many times, but God intends for us to have strong, love relationships with other people. It is very unhealthy for us to be isolated from others, and we only really grow to be like Jesus when we cultivate friendships that are deep and strong. The Bible even tells us in Proverbs that there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. We should choose to be that friend, and to love as many people as possible in that way. What if our hearts were deeply stirred every time we saw a friend whom we have not seen for a while? What if we loved everyone like Jesus does? I believe our world would be much better off than it is now. 

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Tomorrow, I intend to read Genesis 44-46.