Compiled by: Georgeanne Falstrom, Intern
PARISH LAY MINISTRY ACADEMY
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Tuesday, March 21, 2006
(Daily Readings: Ps 78; Gen 45:1-15; 1 Cor 7:32-40; Mark 6:1-13)


IT’S OUR CHOICE
By: Georgeanne Falstrom

Scripture: "And do not be distressed, or angry with yourselves because you sold me here; for God sent me before you to preserve life. It was not you who sent me here, but God."...Gen. 45: 5;8

Renewal and reconciliation or revenge and rejection? How many times a day do we have to make the choice? If, like Joseph, we could accept God’s involvement in our circuitous life’s journey at all stages, our misgivings would not lead to self-righteous behaviors or unresolvable conflict. God is present in the hidden contours of our relationships and family brokeness. Do we depend on him or ourselves for harmony?

The story of Joseph is just one example in scripture of dysfunctional sibling rivalry. Unlike Cain and Able, he chose to resolve the conflict as a win win, even though he put them through some tests at first. A revengeful Joseph could have had his brothers imprisoned, sent away to starve or even killed. He could have sat back and wallowed in self-pity, self-righteousness and resentment until he turned into a bitter old man. Instead, he sought to focus on God’s love for him in his difficult journey and responded to their need as God had responded to his, with forgiveness and generosity.

Choosing a revengeful solution usually creates more problems, unrest and sadness. This can distance family members for years. Joseph’s brothers used deceit to cover up their sin, but did this bring them peace? What happens in a family when sides are taken between members and each puts their own needs first or hides from the truth?

Joseph put his faith in God and allowed God to provide him with prosperity and fame. He was in a position of honor and safety in Pharaoh’s house. But, he still longed for his family, in spite of what they had done to him. Instead of bringing harm to his brothers, like they had treated him, when they needed his help, he welcomed them and offered them full forgiveness. He chose God’s way.

Is there someone in your life that you need to be honest with about a past hurt? What has been the result of holding back reconciliation? What will renewal of that relationship mean to you? When can you begin the process? Who will be involved? What’s holding you back? The choice is yours.

Prayer: Gracious, loving father, please show me where I need to renew broken relationships and reveal to me how this can be used for the good of all. Help me to be loving, honest, forthcoming, merciful and compassionate to insure peaceful solutions to relational problems, whether with family or friends. Likewise, remind me of my need for daily reconciliation with you through confession and prayer. I admit I am a sinner. Thank you for loving me enough to sacrifice your son for the forgiveness of all my sins.

Medition: Renew in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a right spirit within me. Ps 51:10