The Old Testament reading from Genesis 45:3-15 is the account of Joseph, who has become prince of Egypt, revealing his identity to the brothers who have sold him into slavery. The brothers are naturally troubled, but Joseph reassures them. He sees the work of divine providence in their lives. In 45:5 and 7, Joseph tells them that God has used events to save them.
The Gospel from Luke 6:27-38 is a series of diverse but related sayings from our Lord. These sayings are in Jesus' "Sermon on the Plain," Luke's parallel to the Sermon on the Mount. The emphasis is on good attitudes and actions expressing love, kindness, and mercy. The basis for such goodness is trust in God the heavenly Father and in His providence. Christ Himself exemplifies such trust or faith, and He asks His followers to trust in providence. Knowing that God cares for us in all circumstances, His grace frees us to pursue a higher and deeper righteousness than human legalism can imagine. As God our Father mercifully cares for us, we should likewise be merciful toward others. Such divine graciousness is the true context for Christian behavior.
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