"What We do Matters"

Genesis 37: 12-36


Today’s reading tells the story of Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers.  While Joseph is the focus of this story, I was intrigued by Reuben.  Reuben is the oldest brother, the first-born son of Jacob (Israel) and Leah.  He first shows up in this reading in verse 21 where he tells his brothers not to harm Joseph.  Ultimately, he plans to rescue Joseph and take him back to Jacob.  


In verses 23 – 28 we see how Reuben‘s (and Joseph’s) brothers take things into their own hands with Judah acting as the leader.  The do not physically harm Joseph, but sell him into slavery.  Verse 29 makes it clear that this was done without Reuben’s knowledge or consent. 

Why did the brothers ignore Reuben?  I personally have a high regard for my oldest sibling (brother).  While we don’t always agree, there is something about his place in the family that is special and deserves respect.  Do you share this perspective?  Are you the oldest sibling in your family?  If this is in any way true today, it was significantly more so in Old Testament times.  So why the total disregard for Reuben?  A couple of verses in Genesis 35 shed some light on this topic:  “²¹ Israel moved on again and pitched his tent beyond Migdal Eder. ²² While Israel was living in that region, Reuben went in and slept with his father’s concubine Bilhah, and Israel heard of it.”


If you read the rest of Joseph’s story you will see how Judah clearly takes over Reuben’s role.  In Genesis 49: 3-4 Reuben’s fate is “sealed” as Jacob gives his final blessing:   ³ “Reuben, you are my firstborn, my might, the first sign of my strength, excelling in honor, excelling in power.
⁴ Turbulent as the waters, you will no longer excel, for you went up onto your father’s bed, onto my couch and defiled it.”


What can we learn from this?  What we do matters!!  Our ability to lead or influence others in a positive way is affected by our actions.  This seems like good reason to continue to grow in our walk of obedience to God’s commands.  Thanks be to God for the many gifts He provides in our walk of faith and the grace and forgiveness that are ours through Jesus Christ when we fall short.