So Joseph said to his brothers, “Come near to me, please.” Genesis 45:4
Here is one more powerful picture of what reconciliation looks like.
When Joseph revealed his true identity to his brothers, they were terrified. “But his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed at his presence” (45:3). “We know the evil we did to him, and now that he has power, what will he do to us?” Discerning their fear, Joseph invited them to come near to him. He wanted to be close to them, to comfort and assure them.
This same love that says, “Come near” was lavished over each of Joseph’s brothers: “And he kissed all his brothers and wept upon them. After that his brothers talked with him” (45:15). This was an amazing contrast to the beginning of the story when his brothers “could not speak peacefully to him” (37:4). For years they had no interest in speaking with him.
But now that he was a powerful lord in Egypt, they were silent because they were overwhelmed by their own guilt and fear and shame. Joseph said, “Come near.” He showed his love as he kissed them and wept over them; and only after this loving gesture could his brothers talk with him.
Jesus says to us today, whatever we have done: “Come to me” (Matt. 11:28). The Person against whom we have all sinned loves us and wants us near! Freedom in prayer arises from assurance of forgiveness. You may be too afraid or ashamed to talk to God, but Jesus says, “Come near to me.” He lavishes you with His love, so that you are able to talk with Him freely in prayer.
Is there someone in your life who is avoiding you or who struggles to talk with you? Do they know your love for them? Are you struggling to pray? Will you respond to Jesus’ invitation today? He wants you to come near Him and He has made a way for you through the cross.
