Celling Intergrity- Joseph

Building on Mark's reflection of Joseph through difficult times, the aspect of the story that I'm most struck with is Joseph's patience and integrity. The length of time from pit to palace was not a quick one. Joseph was just a boy when thrown into the pit, (early teens?) and was 30 when he was appointed by Pharaoh to rule. So we have at least 15 years, with a bulk of those being lived in prison. This was not a quick solution to a problem. I get frustrated with God when my prayers and needs are not answered after a day – let alone over 15 years. Yet, this did not seemly erode Joseph's reliance and faith in God. Joseph was in this alone, no family, no faith community support, and no available daily devotional materials. It was him and his faith and trust in the existence and awareness of God. I can't think of a much tougher situation to be in. Alone! Who would blame him from straying or indulging in some momentary personal pleasures? Who would see? Who would care? What difference would it make? How could it get worse? But Joseph remained steadfast and faithful. So much so that even though he had not been 'ministered' to himself, when the occasion arose, he ministered to others. He didn't permit his circumstance to rob him of his integrity or his humanity.

It's so hard not to let circumstance and experience jade us. But if we are to follow, (to borrow a phrase from Erwin McManus) The Barbarian way we must be willing to live the 'raw, primal and dangerous faith of Jesus Christ'. It means that we must live above our circumstances and not be led by feeling and emotion, but by Truth and Grace. We must not respond eye for eye, but live as lambs – gentle and dependent on the Great Shepherd to guide us through the Valley of Death. Even if it takes 15 years --- or maybe a life time

Anyway I was just thinking

Neil