The moving story of Joseph's sojourn in Egypt has captivated imaginations for centuries. Who can fail to be moved by his suffering and trials, as well as his eventual reconciliation with his jealous and plotting brothers? However, Joseph is able to save his entire family because of his struggles. In the end, there are no villains in the story, just very human people who often do negative or stupid things. As with Joseph, let us never curse our lot, but remember God in every situation.

The story of the wicked vineyard tenants is a parable that the evangelist originally used as a polemical weapon against the Jewish people, for the allusion is to the crucifixion of Jesus. This is one of the aspects of Christian history that we should regret, for we know that only a handful of people were responsible for the death of Jesus, and we also know that our treatment of God's messengers is often not any better. It is better for us to remember the Joseph story in its entirety: it resulted in forgiveness, healing, and reconciliation. That should be reflected in our attitudes towards all those for whom we have negative feelings or thoughts. Let us also ask ourselves each day if we have any produce or fruit from our own vineyard to offer God, for we must never forget that we are but tenants. All is gift from God, and in the end, all must return to Him.