Genesis 46:1-30

A Journey Toward Reunion

Jacob had believed a lie so long that he could not accept the truth. It took hearing his sons repeat Joseph's words and seeing the carts he sent to convince him. Then, he said, "It is enough. Joseph my son is still alive. I will go and see him before I die" (Genesis 45:25-28). Jacob stopped at Beersheba on his way to Egypt. He offered sacrifices to God, perhaps in thanksgiving for learning Joseph was still alive. God reassured him that going into Egypt was in accord with his will. He promised to make of Jacob a great nation and bring that nation safely out of Egypt. God also promised Jacob that his favorite son, Joseph, would be there to close his eyes in death.

Jacob sent Judah ahead to get directions from Joseph as to where they should settle. They went to the land of Goshen, as directed. "So Joseph made ready his chariot and went up to Goshen to meet his father Israel; and he presented himself to him, and fell on his neck and wept on his neck a good while." Jacob was so happy that he said, "Now let me die, since I have seen your face, because you are still alive" (Genesis 46:1-30).