Tuesday, 22 December 2020

Joseph and change

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There is an old saying, "wherever you go, there you are." The "you" in that saying is meant to reflect your identity. If you are a disciple of Yeshua, wherever you go, you take the kingdom of God.

This week's reading provides us an opportunity to see Joseph stepping into a new role in the land of Egypt. Moreover, he has adapted to his new role and his life has changed.

Each new circumstance, or life change, for Joseph, was not his choice. It was a result of him being victimized. First his brothers, then the Ishmaelites, then Potiphar, then the Keeper of the Jail. However, his outlook focused on adapting to his circumstances and doing the work he was meant to do in the midst of his new surroundings.

For Joseph, it was being who he was that made a difference. In other words, Joseph always acted like himself regardless of the circumstances. Yeshua did the same. Yeshua demonstrated his identity in all circumstances. That is, Yeshua reflected the father, regardless of how he felt because that is who he is.

We know that our identity is in Yeshua. We were created in such a way that the only way we can know what that identity is and means (for us) is by seeing it reflected by others. We see this in Yeshua himself in the scriptures; we see it in real disciples of Yeshua who have their identity in him.

This year has given us very new circumstances. It has given us an opportunity to learn more of who we are in Yeshua. It has provided us with a way to move us in a new direction like Joseph. And, like Joseph, we need to adapt and always act like who we are.

2020 is a reset year.

As we get ready to enter into the new year, rather than expecting the old year we never had, or the year before the year we never had, maybe it's time we took a look around and said "here I am" ready and acting like Yeshua. Perhaps, if we do this like Joseph, we will be prepared to step into the place God has for us because we know who we are.

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11 ESV)