The long and dramatic story of Joseph and his brothers was ending. His brothers had sold him into slavery, but he had prospered and risen to a rank second only to Pharaoh. Now the brothers stood before Joseph but did not yet recognize him. When they heard that Joseph was going to keep Benjamin, Judah stepped forward and pleaded for his freedom. He confessed the great evil that they had done and pleaded with Joseph not to do anything that would grieve their father. Joseph burst into tears and they were all reconciled. No one is beyond conversion and redemption, but things often take time. Forgiveness heals and gives life.

As Jesus sent his apostles to announce the arrival of the Kingdom of God, he ordered them to cure the sick, cleanse lepers, and raise the dead. In other words, the presence of the Kingdom was always accompanied by healing and new life. This was the good news - God was visiting his people and blessing them in many ways. Our own ministry should always be filled with hope and new life - we too can announce the arrival of God's Kingdom with authenticity and conviction.