Day 23: Judah Changes

Genesis 43:8-10 It was Judah rather than Reuben, the oldest brother, who spoke up assertively with a firm promise to Jacob. This is a FORESHADOWING of the role the Tribe of Judah would play in salvation history: both David and Christ came out of the Tribe of Judah.


Ch 44:1-38 Joseph’s ruse regarding the silver cup succeeded in bringing about the repentance of his brothers for the terrible injustice committed against him years before. True repentance leads to true reconciliation and joy. (CCC 1434, 1451-1453)


Job 35:12-14 Dryness in prayer is a common affliction that requires faith and hope that God is purifying us for the sake of true growth in holiness. (CCC 2754)


Ch 36:1-33 Elihu claimed that sickness, loss, and pain are means God uses to reveal our sins so that we might repent and reconcile with him. Though the reality of suffering is a mystery, God, who is infinitely wise and loving, accomplishes great good through this purifying means. Suffering has redemptive value; God will use affliction and adversity to help us overcome sin and become transformed in Christ. 


Ch 36:36 God’s greatness is far beyond human comprehension. We can grow in our knowledge of God though an ever greater obedience to his moral law. By growing in virtue our familiarity with God increases. (CCC 223)


Proverbs 4:10-27 The options faced when making a moral decision are compared aptly to multiple paths that lead to various destinations. The correct path is not always the easiest, and many times it may seem the most rugged. When facing such decisions, we must consider where the different paths ultimately lead and choose a virtuous path that leads to God. The practical wisdom of prudence guides our consciences so our choices reflect moral law and are expressions of virtue. Wisdom and prudence are perfected through regular contemplation of God’s Word, familiarity with the Church’s teachings, and openness to frequent repentance. (CCC 89, 1785, 1802, 1889, 2863)

(*The Didache Bible RSV-CE Ignatius Edition, 2006)


(*Walking With God: A Journey Through the Bible by Tim Gray and Jeff Cavins)



Prayer by Fr. Mike: "God in Heaven, we thank you and praise you. You are our Good Father. You love us. You reveal your heart to us. We ask that you please continue to send your Holy Spirit upon us as we listen to your Word, as we let it penetrate our minds, and transform our hearts, as we let your Word be the North Star that guides the direction of our lives. Mary, Queen of Heaven, we ask for your intercession. We ask that you lead us to your Son, Jesus Christ. You who bore the Word Made Flesh in your Womb, help the Word Proclaimed dwell in our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen."

ANDREW'S PARALLELS

Benjamin, the beloved brother of Joseph due to bring the two sons of Rachel. John, the beloved disciple of Christ, is given Mary to share with him as his Mother.

Judah offers to take Benjamin's punishment like how Christ took our punishment upon himself.