Gen 37:21 When Reuben heard this, he tried to rescue him from their hands. “Let’s not take his life,” he said.
Genesis 37 is a rich chapter. Today, I want to take a look at Reuben, firstborn of Leah and Jacob, Reuben, who back in chapter 35 had relations “with his father’s concubine Bilhah.” On the one hand, he seems to have come a long way. He is not of one mind with his brothers about killing Joseph. In fact, from the beginning, he seems to be trying to figure out a way to keep Joseph alive and get him back to his father. On the other hand, he doesn’t call his brothers out on their evil behavior. Commentary says: “Reuben wanted to be merciful to Joseph, but he also wanted to please the other brothers who hated Joseph.”
Gen 37:22a “Don’t shed any blood. Throw him into this cistern here in the wilderness, but don’t lay a hand on him.”
How often have I been or seen others in a similar position, wanting to stand up for someone but not wanting to draw the ire of the group. Perhaps Reuben rationalized his partial action by telling himself that if he just flatly spoke up, he’d lose the ability to influence the brothers at all. However, he isn’t around when his brothers sell Joseph to the Ishmaelites, and while Joseph isn’t physically dead, he is just as gone, so Reuben’s half-hearted attempt to get him back to his father failed. Jesus, Help us.
Gen 37:22b Reuben said this to rescue him from them and take him back to his father.
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for the reminder to stand up for others in need. Forgive me for the times I’ve acted like Reuben, trying to navigate doing the right thing without offending those causing the disruption. Help me to shine Your light, Lord, no matter what. Help me to comfort Your people and to bring You glory without thinking of the personal cost. Draw me closer. Amen.
Gen 37:29 When Reuben returned to the cistern and saw that Joseph was not there, he tore his clothes.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.