Thursday, Sept. 5
Genesis 41:1-57 Read it here
After two more years in prison, Joseph’s fortunes change.
Pharaoh has had two dreams that disturb him greatly. The magicians and wise men who would usually advise him have no explanation for the dreams. The cupbearer, being in a position to hear what is going on, finally remembers Joseph and his gift of dream interpretation.
He tells Pharaoh of the young Hebrew in prison who rightly interpreted dreams there, and Pharaoh sends for Joseph.
Joseph responds with humility, telling Pharaoh that he is unable to interpret the dreams, but that the God he serves can. Again, Joseph seems to have more in common with the prophets who will come along much later than he has in common with his recent ancestors.
Joseph tells Pharaoh that both dreams have the same meaning: there will be seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. He then suggests that Pharaoh find a “discerning and wise man” to put in charge of preparing for the famine during the years of plenty.
Pharaoh realizes that Joseph is the discerning and wise man he is looking for, and makes Joseph the leader of the country second only to Pharaoh himself—not a bad outcome for someone who has been sold into slavery. He oversees the construction of cities to store excess grain in preparation for the coming famine while also starting a family and having two sons.
Finally, the famine comes.
Not only is Egypt able to feed its people, but it also gains wealth by selling food to surrounding nations.
Joseph, at least, has succeeded in becoming a blessing to the world.