Finding Christ in the Old Testament - Genesis 41

Finding Christ in the Old Testament

Genesis 41:1-27

"After two whole years, Pharaoh dreamed that he was standing by the Nile..."

Joseph, once forgotten in prison, is now called to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams, revealing God’s sovereign hand in the affairs of nations. Pharaoh’s two dreams—seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine—point to the wisdom and provision of God. In Joseph, we see a foreshadowing of Christ, who, after humiliation, is exalted to a position of power. Joseph provides the interpretation and wisdom needed to save Egypt, just as Christ, after His resurrection, is seated at the right hand of the Father, providing eternal salvation. The famine that follows the years of plenty reminds us of the spiritual famine that afflicts humanity apart from Christ, the Bread of Life. Joseph’s rise to power prefigures Christ’s exaltation, and his role in feeding the nations mirrors Christ’s provision in the Eucharist, where He gives His body and blood for the life of the world.

Devotion

God’s timing is perfect. Though Joseph waited in prison for years, God’s plan was unfolding. Likewise, Christ humbled Himself to death but was raised in glory. When we face seasons of waiting, we trust that God is working for our good, preparing us for what is to come.

New Testament Verse:
Philippians 2:9-11 (ESV) "Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."

Collect
O Lord of all wisdom, who lifts up the lowly and exalts the humble, grant that we may trust in Your perfect timing, knowing that all things work together for good for those who love You. As You raised Joseph from the prison to the palace, so lift our hearts to Christ, who reigns over all things and provides the true Bread of Life for His people. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever, unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Hymn Verse:
"Feed Thy children, God most holy,
Comfort sinners poor and lowly.
O Thou Bread of Life from heaven,
Bless the food Thou here hast given!
As these gifts the body nourish,
May our souls in graces flourish,
Till with saints in heav’nly splendor,
At Thy feast due thanks we render."

LSB 774:1, "Feed Thy Children, God Most Holy"