The story of brotherly betrayal is a lesson we have not only seen with Joseph and his brothers, but is rooted back in the first sibling set, Cain and Abel. The question “Am I my brother’s keeper” is one that is thrown around in the modern day as well. This question is an excuse for sin. As Christian we are called to care for not only our familial siblings, but our brothers and sisters in Christ as well.
Galatian 6:1-2 Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
We are to help restore one another in a spirit of gentleness. We are to bear one another’s burdens. In short, we are not to give up on one another.
Joseph was wronged in an extreme way by those who were supposed to help bear his burdens. But in Genesis 43-44 we see Joseph acting as Christ would. He does not turn his back on his brothers. He does not do what he could according to the law of the land, and gain revenge and retribution. Instead, he does what is right in the eyes of the Lord. He forgives.
Today, take some time to sit in prayer reflecting on how you can be your brother’s keeper. What are some tangible ways you can apply this to your life?