18 The brothers were terrified when they saw that they were being taken into Joseph’s house. “It’s because of the money someone put in our sacks last time we were here,” they said. “He plans to pretend that we stole it. Then he will seize us, make us slaves, and take our donkeys.”

19 The brothers approached the manager of Joseph’s household and spoke to him at the entrance to the palace. 20 “Sir,” they said, “we came to Egypt once before to buy food. 21 But as we were returning home, we stopped for the night and opened our sacks. Then we discovered that each man’s money—the exact amount paid—was in the top of his sack! Here it is; we have brought it back with us. 22 We also have additional money to buy more food. We have no idea who put our money in our sacks.”

23 “Relax. Don’t be afraid,” the household manager told them. “Your God, the God of your father, must have put this treasure into your sacks. I know I received your payment.” Then he released Simeon and brought him out to them.

24 The manager then led the men into Joseph’s palace. He gave them water to wash their feet and provided food for their donkeys. 25 They were told they would be eating there, so they prepared their gifts for Joseph’s arrival at noon.

Genesis 43:18-25 (NLT)

Terrified

As we noted yesterday, the brothers were terrified. Why were they being asked into Joseph’s house? They surmised it was to take them as slaves and life would never be the same; they’d never see Jacob or their home again.

Petition

Before they meet with Joseph, the brothers make a desperate appeal to the manager of his household regarding the miracle money. They “came clean” with him and told them they brought the money back to prove they were honest and didn’t know how it happened.

The manager calms their fears saying God has blessed them. He confirms that he received the payment. But there is no mention of putting it back in their sacks (or who did it). Maybe Joseph did it himself to keep it quiet. Certainly anyone who knew would have wondered why. It would seem a bit shady. Then he brings Simeon out to them – an indication that Joseph acknowledged they are not spies so kept his promise to them.

Another possible explanation of the money exchange is offered by Dr. Constable of Planobiblechapel.org is that, “…Joseph had covered the loss by paying for his brothers’ food himself.” 

Prepare to present presents

The brothers are told they will eat with Joseph. They were treated like royal guests. So they took this opportunity to prepare to present their presents to Joseph. The situation becomes even more interesting tomorrow. Later, they’ll be tested.

RЯeflection

• I think we can assume Joseph witnessed about the Lord to those around him – including the master of his household. Who knows, maybe he was a follower of the Lord. He also credited God in front of Pharaoh (Genesis 41:16) as the only One who could interpret dreams.
• How about you? Are we intentional (and prayerful) about sharing who our Lord is? We, as all disciples, are called to go and teach all nations and baptize and make disciples. (Matthew 28:18-20)