The wheel of Joseph's life #3 (The dreamers)

November 10, 2020 (Tuesday)

 

We are following the “wheel” of Joseph’s life. He was favored by his father, sold into slavery to Egypt, gained his master's favor, falsely accused of attempting to rape his master’s wife, thrown into prison, and now running the prison. That’s a serious roller coaster. 

 

Chapeter 40 starts, “Some time later, Pharaoh’s chief cup-bearer and chief baker offended their royal master.” [Genesis 40:1 NLT] A “cup-bearer” was a close friend and adviser of the king. His job was to taste the drinks and food before the king. It was a way to ensure the king would not be poisoned.

 

The story takes an interesting turn, “They remained in prison for quite some time, and the captain of the guard assigned them to Joseph, who looked after them.” [Genesis 40:4 NLT] Why is this interesting? I am glad you asked. One of the things I hope you are learning is to pay attention to details. Notice who assigned the prisoners to Joseph. Hint: it was not the jailer. It was “the captain of the guard.” Potiphar.

 

After “some time” the two men had a dream. When Joseph showed up to serve them, they looked “dejected.” “They answered, “We’ve both had dreams, but there’s no one to interpret them.” Joseph said to them, “Don’t interpretations belong to God? Describe your dreams to me.” [Genesis 40:8 CEB]

 

The cup-bearer dreamed about a vine that produced grapes. He squeezed them into Pharaoh’s cup and put it in his hand. Joseph explained the dream, “Within three days Pharaoh will lift you up and restore you to your position as his chief cup-bearer.” [Genesis 40:13 NLT]

 

The chief baker’s dream was about three baskets of bread. Trouble was the birds were eating the bread, in the baskets, on his head. Joseph explained, “Three days from now Pharaoh will lift you up and impale your body on a pole. Then birds will come and peck away at your flesh.” [Genesis 40:19 NLT]

 

Both dreams come true.

 

The cool thing about rubbing shoulders and serving important people, it becomes an opportunity. Joseph does not miss his chance to ask for a favor, “But when all goes well with you, remember me and show me kindness; mention me to Pharaoh and get me out of this prison.” [Genesis 40:14 NIV]

 

The bad thing is important people forget the service. We don't serve to get noticed, but it can be nice to be remembered. “Pharaoh’s chief cup-bearer, however, forgot all about Joseph, never giving him another thought.” [Genesis 40:24 NLT] Ouch, that is cold. But important people have more to deal with than remembering someone, eh?

 

Joseph seems to be languishing a bit. Catch the attitude, “For I was kidnapped from my homeland, the land of the Hebrews, and now I’m here in prison, but I did nothing to deserve it.” [Genesis 40:15 NLT] At this point I want to remind you, God is not finished with the story yet. While we might not like it, God’s timing is perfect. Joseph’s value will be recognized in a moment of desperation. Stay tuned.

 

In the meantime, take heart. God is not finished with you. God is not done with your story.