In the first reading from Genesis, we enter into the story of Joseph, the favored son of Jacob. He is given a beautiful tunic, a symbol of his father’s love. This favoritism sows seeds of resentment among his brothers, leading them to plot against him. Joseph’s dreams, which foretell his rise and their eventual bowing to him, only deepen their animosity. Their jealousy drives them to unimaginable actions, as they sell him into slavery. How painful it must have been for Joseph to be rejected by his own family, stripped of his dignity, and cast away.
Yet, the narrative does not end in darkness. The psalm reminds us that God “sent a man before them, Joseph, sold as a slave,” and that through Joseph’s hardships, a greater plan was unfolding. God was preparing to work through Joseph to save not only his family but an entire nation from famine. Joseph’s suffering was not in vain; it was part of God’s divine providence.
Joseph therefore is a type, a prefiguring of Jesus, for similarly, the Gospel passage from Matthew presents us with another profound rejection—the rejection of the Son of God. In this parable, Jesus speaks to the religious leaders about the landowner who entrusts his vineyard to tenants. The tenants, in their greed and pride, reject the landowner’s servants and ultimately even his own son. This mirrors Joseph's story in many ways. Just as Joseph was cast away by his brothers, Jesus is ultimately rejected, betrayed, and killed by those who were supposed to honor and protect Him.
The rejection of Joseph and the rejection of Jesus reflect the human tendency to turn against those whom we perceive as different or favored. This Lenten season invites us to examine our hearts to see if there are people we reject due to jealousy, pride, or misunderstanding? Are there opportunities where we have closed our hearts to loving others and striving for all that is good?
Yet, amidst these stories of rejection and betrayal, we are presented with God’s mercy in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him might not perish but have eternal life.” This tells us that God’s love is not contingent upon our worthiness. In fact, while we may turn away, God
continues to pursue us. His plan for redemption is much greater than our failings. Notwithstanding our sins, we remain his precious and beloved sons and daughters. Nothing can ever separate us from his love.
As we move deeper into Lent, let us remember that our own journeys may involve struggles and rejections akin to those of Jesus and Joseph.
This week, I encourage you to reflect on two questions: Who in your life is God calling you to reconcile with? And how can you extend love, even in difficult situations? In doing so, we become vessels of God’s grace in a world yearning for healing.
Let us approach the altar with open hearts, prepared to receive the love and mercy of Christ, so we too may share it with others. May we remember the marvels the Lord has done, trusting that despite our betrayals, He is always at work for our good. Amen.
Add comment
Comments
I love it Father. Thank you