Benjamin's Request Denied

By Mary Vee
Genesis 42:38-43:14

Benjamin sighed. His brothers tried to talk their father into taking him to Egypt. It was the only way the governor would release Simeon from jail. I wouldn't mind going to Egypt. I'm not afraid.

His father, Jacob, stood firm. "I'm telling you, Reuben. I won't let Benjamin go. His brother, Joseph, is dead and now he is left alone."

The brothers looked at Benjamin. He wasn't sure what their eyes said, but it didn't seem good. He looked down at the ground and shuffled his feet. If I went, I could get Simeon out of jail. "Father, I want to help."

Jacob shook his head. "You're not going Benjamin. If I lost you...I'd...I'd die. No. I won't change my mind."

Benjamin's brothers turned away in a huff. He heard them muttering. Great, now they'll be mad at me.

Days and weeks passed. No one said a word about Egypt to keep from upsetting Jacob. After a while the grain bin grew empty. One morning, Leah, Jacob's wife became concerned. "I can't make bread. We're out of grain. Benjamin, go tell your father we need more."

Benjamin walked out to the field and found his father with a handful of dry dirt. "The grain is gone. What do you want us to do."

Jacob rolled his thumb in the powdery dirt. "The rain still has not come." He dropped the dirt and brushed his hands on his tunic. "Call your brothers. Tell them to meet me here."

Benjamin found Reuben first. "Father wants to meet with all of you. He's out by the field."

Reuben nodded. "I'll help you get the others."

Benjamin followed his brothers, but made sure he stayed toward the back of the group.

"The grain is gone." Jacob turned toward his sons. "As much as I hate to say this, you need to go to Egypt to buy more."

"Father, the govenor won't sell us any food unless we have Benjamin." Judah rubbed his temple. "He distinctly warned us, saying he would never see us unless our youngest brother came. If we can take Benjamin we'll go, but, if you refuse then we won't bother with the journey."

Jacob huffed. He raised his fist and paced. "Why did you tell him you had another brother in the first place?"

"But he asked about our family." Levi picked at the gate. "If we didn't tell the truth, we'd all be in jail right now. We didn't know he'd say we had to bring Benjamin back."

No one spoke. The brother's looked at each other trying to figure out what to say.

"Send Benjamin with me." Judah pressed his hands together and held them close to his face. "I will watch him. We'll go, buy the grain. If I don't bring him back safely, let me bear the blame forever." He stepped close to his father. "Look, if we hadn't waited we could have gone to Egypt and been back by now with more grain. Our families are hungry."

Jacob walked away from his sons a few steps. He gazed out at the dusty, empty fields. "Take your brother and go back to Egypt. And may God Almighty give you mercy before the governor that he may release Simeon and return Benjamin. Go. Leave at once."

Benjamin ran back to his tent. "I get to go to Egypt!"

Why didn't Jacob want Benjamin to go to Egypt? Sometimes we ask our parents if we can do things or go places and they say no. Why do they do that? What did the brothers do when Jacob said "no"? What does God want us to do when our parents say no?

Genesis Anagram Puzzle

By Mary Vee

Happy Memorial Day! Please take a moment to remember what the soldiers have done for our country.



HAVE FUN WITH THIS GAME. THIS WILL BE THE LAST MONDAY GAME. Starting next week, stop by on Mondays for fun family tips and a question and answer time. Can't wait to see you there :)



HOW MANY DID YOU FIND? CLICK THE BUTTON TO TELL ME. :)


Here is the answer to last week's puzzle:



HOW DID YOU DO? CLICK ON THE BUTTON TO TELL ME. :)

Can Reuben Save Simeon?

By Mary Vee
Genesis 42:29-37

Reuben and his brothers came to the last hill before their father's home. Asher walked up to the front of the group. The others joined him. "Reuben, you're going to do all the talking, right?"

I wish I didn't have to, but I'm the oldest. Reuben raised a corner of his mouth. "Of course. I don't mind telling father."

Asher slapped his older brother on the back and laughed with relief. "Thanks."

Reuben yanked the rope for his donkey and took the lead down the hill. In the distance he noticed his father standing near a tent. Reuben's pace slowed. He's going to be mad. How do I tell Father that Simeon's in jail? How do I tell him I need to take Benjamin back to rescue Simeon?

As they neared, Jacob walked out to the road. He shaded the sun from his eyes. "My sons, you're home!"

The brothers tied their donkeys to a tree and walked over to their father. Reuben turned to look at each brother. "Remember, I do the talking." They nodded, raised their heads, and smiled.

Jacob opened his arms to give each of his sons a warm welcome. "My sons, I'm so glad you're home. Come, have something to eat and drink. You must tell me about your journey."

Jacob raised his cup to give a toast. "To my sons who brought food for our families." As Reuben and the others raised their cups, Jacob scanned the row of boys. "Do my old eyes deceive me? Didn't I send ten sons to buy food? Why do I see nine?"

He slammed his fist on the table. "Where is Simeon?"

Dan and the other brothers coward back.

Reuben rubbed the back of his neck. "I will tell you about our journey." He took a deep breath. "The man who is lord of the land spoke with harsh words to us. He said we were spies!"

Jacob's eyes flashed wide. "Spies? Why did he say that? What did you do?"

Reuben shoved his hands down on the table. "I told him--" he pointed to his brothers, "--we told him 'We are honest men, not spies. We are twelve brothers, sons of our father. One has died, and the youngest is with our father in the land of Canaan."

At that moment, Benjamin closed the gate for the sheep. He rubbed his hands together and sat at the table. "You're back! Great, I could use some help with--hey, where's Simeon?"

The older brothers growled at him. "Quiet, Squirt."

Jacob pressed his hands together and looked back at Reuben. "So, what happened to Simeon?"

'Well, the lord of the country said, 'There is a way you can show your honesty. Leave one of your brothers here with me, take food for your hungry families and leave. When you get home, get your youngest brother and bring him to me. If you do these things, I will know you truly are honest men and will set your brother free and allow you to trade in Egypt."

"And you left Simeon there?"

Reuben stood and took a few steps from the table. "There's more."

Jacob pushed up with his cane and followed Reuben. "More? What could be worse?"

Reuben and the other brothers led Jacob to their grain sacks. Each opened his. Jacob gasped. "Why is there money on top of the grain?"

"We don't know. We did what we were told. It wasn't until we were half way home that the money was discovered."

Jacob pressed his fist on his chest and closed his eyes. "I can't take much more. Joseph is dead, Simeon is gone, and now you want to take Benjamin away? What more could be against me?"

Reuben bowed. "Take my two sons. If I don't bring Benjamin back to you, take my sons. Trust me. I will bring him back to you."

The Bible says "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding." Reuben has stopped thinking about himself and started thinking of others. He wanted to rescue Simeon. He wanted to protect Benjamin. He wanted to get food for the families.

Will Jacob let Reuben take Benjamin to rescue Simeon? Reuben realizes that all his troubles came because they sold Joseph into slavery. When everything goes wrong for you, what do you think God wants you to do? Click on the comment button.

Reuben's Trouble

By Mary Vee
Genesis 42: 25-36

Reuben loaded the last sack of grain on a donkey. He glanced back at the prison where the Egyptian governor locked up his brother, Simeon. "We'll be back for you," he called, even though Simeon wouldn't hear. The remaining eight brothers echoed his words.

Reuben turned toward the road. "Let's go. The sooner we get home and bring Benjamin back for the governor to see, the sooner Simeon will be released from prison."

Levi pulled one of the donkeys forward. "What if the governor doesn't release Simeon?"

"Yeah, Reuben."Asher caught up to him after yanking his donkey four times. "What if the governor puts Benjamin in jail, or worse yet, what if he kills him?"

"I don't know." Reuben sighed. He grabbed a rope to lead his donkey. "Let's do one step at a time. For now, we'll take the food home to our families, pack up Benjamin then take him to the governor."

Issachar shook his head. "You think for one minute Father's going to let us take Benjamin to Egypt? He watches him with eagle's eyes."

Reuben rubbed his hands together then held them against his face. "Ever since we sold Joseph as a slave to those Ishmaelites there's been nothing but trouble."

"I wonder--" Judah paused. He stroked his beard and glanced back toward Egypt. "I wonder what happened to Joseph."

The brothers walked silently for a few moments. Reuben glanced back. Are they thinking about Joseph, too?

No one told jokes or stories. They simply sweltered in the heat of the day.

At last Gad broke the silence. "All Father does is mope around the farm. If it weren't for Benjamin, he'd have died years ago."

Reuben knew he was right. What am I going to do? What can I say to Father to get permission to take Benjamin to Egypt? Simeon can't wait in jail forever. There must be a way. There must!

Reuben pushed his brothers to travel further than a usual day's walk. "Just a little further. We need to hurry home." When he finally let them set up camp, each brother rushed to do their chores. Even Reuben had trouble keeping his eyes open.

One reached for his sack of grain to feed his donkey. He untied the rope and pulled the cloth open. He looked inside then stumbled back a few steps. "Oh No!"

Reuben turned. "What? What's wrong?"

"L--look. Look in my sack!"

Reuben ran to see. He gaped in the opening. "Why is there money in your sack?"

The brother shook his head. "How should I know? I didn't put it here." He pulled the money out of the bag. "It's the exact amount I paid!"

The other brothers yanked their sacks open. "My money is here, too." "So, is mine." "What are we going to do?" "I don't know." "Father's going to think we stole the grain." "You're right. He won't let us take Benjamin back to Egypt to get Simeon." "What are we going to do?"

Reuben sat on the ground and held his head in his hands. "What has God done to us?"

Levi sat on the ground next to Reuben. He sat quietly for a moment then pulled a blade of grass. "Let's leave the money in the grain sacks for now and let Father help us think of a solution."

"Don't you see, Levi?" Reuben's head throbbed. "This--the money, Simeon, the rude governor--all our troubles are happening because of what we did to Joseph."

Judah laid his hand on Reuben's shoulder. "You're right."

"I'm what?"

Judah sat eye to eye with his brother. "I wish we could undo that day--but we can't. All we can do now is live with the troubles we brought ourselves."

"Trouble is right. We once were twelve brothers, now we are ten. What next?"

The brothers gathered together. Reuben looked each in the eye then pounded his fist in his hand. "We must do our best to right wrongs we've done against God and our father. Tomorrow we continue home, get Benjamin then rescue Simeon."

The Bible says, "Your sins will find you out." Reuben and his brothers know that now. What do you think God wants Reuben and his brothers to do? They don't know that the governor is Joseph, yet. They are heading home without Simeon. They have to convince their father to let them take Benjamin back. So much going on.

How do you feel when you're in the middle of trouble. I've felt overwhelmed, not sure what my next choice should be, even though God tells my heart what I should do. If you could talk to Reuben and his brothers right now, what would you tell them?

Egyptian Missing Pieces Game

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: Five pieces from the left picture are missing from the right. Print this game them circle the objects in the left picture.



HOW DID YOU DO? CLICK THE COMMENT BUTTON TO TELL ME IF YOU FOUND ALL FIVE.




Here is the answer to last week's Who Am I Puzzle

Joseph
Butler
Pharaoh

How did you do?

Simeon Arrested, Benjamin Summoned

By Mary Vee
Genesis 42:18-24

A servant approached Joseph. "My lord, you requested the ten foreign men to be released today. The guards have them outside. Do you wish to speak with them?"

Joseph walked to the balcony overlooking the grain storage buildings. Hundreds of people stood in line waiting to buy food in the court area. "More have come to buy food today."

The servant nodded. "The famine is severe, as you said it would. Had the grain not been stored, all of Egypt would have died."

Joseph stroke his beard. "Not only Egypt--but God revealed to me that the famine has reached the entire world." He sighed. "Tell the Guard to bring the foreign men to me."

"Yes, my lord."

Joseph returned to his seat as his brothers were escorted in the room. They immediately bowed before him and kept their heads toward the ground. He watched his brothers remain still. I wonder what they talked about in the jail.

He rubbed his forehead. "You are to obey what I'm about to tell you to do, for I fear God." Joseph took a sip of his drink. "If you are the honest men you say you are, let one of your brothers remain in the prison house from which you were released while the others take grain back to your homes. Bring back your youngest brother to me to prove your honesty. They you shall not die."

One brother spoke to the others first. "We've been talking about this the past three days. You see, this is all happening because we are guilty for what happened to Joseph."

Another spoke, "I still hear his voice crying out for help. We did nothing."

A third one shook his head. "Oh we did something, all right. We laughed at him. We mocked him."

A fourth covered his ears. "I've lived with the nightmare of that day all these years. He pleaded with us to help him! All we did was sell him as a slave."

A fifth one spoke. "He's dead. He was so frail. He would never have lived as a slave in Egypt. What were we thinking?"

A sixth sighed. "We have brought this distress upon us. What will father say when we return home to say one remained in prison?"

Reuben stepped closer to his brothers. "Didn't I tell you not to hurt him? Didn't I? But no, you wouldn't listen. You had to sell him as a slave when I left to tend the sheep. And now, we all must pay for Joseph's blood."

As the brothers continued to argue Joseph walk out to the balcony where they couldn't see him. I can't believe what I'm hearing. Tears dripped down his face. They didn't know I could understand what they've said since I used an interpreter. They're upset with what they did--but are they sorry?

Joseph wiped his tears and returned to the room. He look at each brother then pointed to Simeon. "You shall return to prison while your brothers return to their homes. When they bring the youngest brother, you will be released."

Joseph called for a guard. "Bind this man and return him to prison."

Well, it seems the brothers realized their troubles in Egypt came from the bad things they did to Joseph, but are they sorry? Joseph isn't sure yet. What do you think? Will the brothers bring Benjamin back to save Simeon, or will they decide to leave him in prison? What will their father say when he learns Simeon stayed in prison? Click on the comment button to tell what you think then come back next Wednesday to find out what happens next.

Spies

By Mary Vee
Genesis 42: 7-17

Joseph stood before the ten foreign men. The eldest commanded something to the others in their language. Instantly they fell down to the earth before him. They don't recognize me. My own brothers don't recognize me. Joseph looked away and sighed. Maybe--maybe I don't need to recognize them, either.

He signaled an interpreter to come near. Joseph squared his shoulders and folded his arms. He spoke as an Egyptian to the interpreter. "Where did you come from?"

As the interpreter conveyed his words the brothers cowered and answered. "From the land of Canaan to buy food."

Haze clouded the air. Joseph stared at the horizon above his brother's heads. His mind replayed the dreams he had so many years ago: first his brothers bundles of straw bowing to his then his brother's stars bowing to him. I'm not ready to welcome them. He shook his head. Why did they come today?

Joseph turned again to the interpreter. "You are spies! You have come to see what the great Egyptian land holds." The interpreter paused and raised his eyebrows. Joseph pointed at the foreign men. "Tell them, Interpreter. Now!"

His brothers took a step back and kept their eyes low. Nine of them looked at the eldest with wide eyes. They pressed their hands together, pleading with their leader to say the right words. He lowered his head further and closed his eyes. "No, my lord, but your servants have come to buy food. We are all one man's sons. We are honest men. Your servants are not spies."

Joseph shook his head. "You've come to see what our land holds. Your faces tell me this is so."

The brothers' jaws dropped. They rubbed the backs of their necks and looked at each other.

What were they thinking? Joseph huffed. Didn't they realize I would be somewhere in Egypt?

Reuben spoke softly. "Please. It is as I said. Your servants are twelve brothers, the son of one man in the land of Canaan. The youngest is back home with our father. The other--well--he is no more."

They think I'm dead! Joseph looked from one brother's face to another. Do they care? Do any of them care what happened to me? I can't tell. Reuben's eyes seem glassy. Is he afraid, or sorry for mistreating me? I must find out.

"You're spies! I will test you to prove my accusations. By the life of Pharaoh, you shall not leave this place unless your youngest brother comes here. Pick one from your group to return to your home to get your brother. The rest will wait here in Egyptian prison."

Joseph stood tall and raised his chin "Then we shall see who speaks the truth; or else by the life of Pharaoh, surely you are spies."

Joseph abruptly turned. "Guard. Put these spies in prison."

The brothers cried out. "No! Please! Give us a chance. Please!"

They call out to me like I called out to them when they threw me in the pit and again when the caravan took me away in chains. Joseph's heart ached. He couldn't hurt his brothers as they hurt him. Yet, they needed to know what he felt.

Joseph summoned the head guard. "Insure those men receive the best care. Release them after three days and bring them to me."

"Yes, my lord."

Joseph made a difficult decision. He could have told his brothers who he was right away. He could have given them food and sent them home, but he wanted to hear his brothers say they were sorry and that they loved him.

How will Joseph know for sure if his brothers are sorry when he hasn't told them who he is? What will he say to them when they get out of jail? Will Joseph leave Egypt and go home with his brothers? Click on the comment button to say what you think. Then come back on Saturday to find out what happens.

Who Am I Game

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: Try to guess who the person is in each box below. Start with the first clue. If you guess correct, 4 points. If you guess correct with the second clue, 3 points. If you guess with the third clue, 2 points. If you guess with the fourth clue, 1 point. The answers will be posted next week.



DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM?



DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM?



DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM?

HOW DID YOU DO? CLICK THE COMMENT BUTTON AND TELL IF YOU FIGURED OUT THE ANSWER.


HERE IS THE ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S PUZZLE

Reuben's Quest for Food

By Mary Vee
Genesis 42:1-6

Reuben swallowed the smaller than usual dinner. He turned to his brother, Simeon. “The food won’t last much longer.”

“I know.”

Jacob slammed down his cup. “My sons, don’t think my ears are so old to prevent me from hearing you. We’ve all know about the grain Egyptians gathered the past seven years. Must I tell you everything? When are you going to take charge and solve problems? Take money and go buy grain for us before we starve.”

Reuben sighed. “But, Father, the Egyptians. They'd rather die than associate with us.”
Jacob shook his head. “That's a chance you must risk. If you don't we'll starve. Take your brothers. Most likely each person can only buy grain for one family.“

“We’ll leave first thing in the morning, Father.” Reuben left the dinner and walked to his tent.

Jacob called out, “Don’t take Benjamin. I don’t want to lose another son.” Reuben turned back.

Benjamin’s eyes grew wide. He ran to his father and fell to his knees. "Dad, please? You never let me do anything fun. I promise to do everything Reuben says if you only let me go.”

Jacob held up his hand. “I have spoken.”

The silence grew deafening.

The next morning Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asher, Issachar, and Zebulun left for Egypt. Along the way they met many other travelers seeking to buy grain for their families. As they grew closer to Egypt they found more people on the road.

Simeon stirred the coals at the campfire. “This errand will take us twice as long if we must deal with all the people on the road.”

Levi leaned against a rock and yawned. “There’ll be long lines once we get there, too.”

Sure enough, the next day dragged as they petered along the road to Egypt. Somehow they managed to get stuck behind a large family. The brothers tried all day to get pass the family, but failed. The next morning Reuben woke everyone early to get ahead of slow travelers.

Once they arrived at the city, they followed the crowd to the distribution center. Dan poked Issachar. “Look at the buildings—magnificent--and how the people are dressed--unusual. I've never seen such a city.”

Issachar held his hands over his ears. “Too many people talking--that music--It’s too noisy! I’d much rather be in the pasture with the sheep--at least they are more quiet.”

They turned a corner and found a massive group of men, women, and children standing in lines waiting to buy food. An Egyptian stood at the entrance barking orders.

Reuben shook his head. “I can’t understand him, can any of you?”

Judah shrugged. “He’s pointing to that line. Let’s go there.”

The ten brothers stood in line for hours. They couldn’t understand the language of people standing near. After a while, they grew hungry and thirsty. At long last they reached the front of the line.

The governor of the land stood near the tables. He watched his workers, giving directions and granting special permissions. He answered one worker’s question with authority. No one questioned his word. Reuben noticed the governor staring at him and his brothers. “Why is he looking at us like that?”

Simeon wiggled his eyebrows up and down. “Probably because he‘s jealous of our nice clothes.”

Reuben laughed, but then glanced at the regal governor. His heart pounded in his chest as his eyes met the official’s. Are we in trouble? Have we offended him? He flung around to face his brothers. “Quick bow before the governor.”

Who was this governor and why did he stare at Reuben and his brothers? Will the brothers be able to buy food or will they be thrown into jail? Have you ever been someplace that made you feel unsafe? What did you do? If you still feel uncomfortable about a certain place, be sure to talk with your parents about the situation.

Egyptian Grain Feeds a Starving World

By Mary Vee
Genesis 41:56-57

Joseph's wife, Asenath, walked into his office with a tray of food. "You've been working too hard. You barely slept last night. Take a break to eat something."

"How do you always know?" He plopped back in his chair and smiled at her. "I must admit, I am tired." He closed his eyes for a moment then sat up. "Pharaoh is counting on me. Egyptians are hungry--"

She followed him to their balcony. "God has filled my head with these great ideas. I must admit--it's exciting. Here let me show you what I've been working on."

He grabbed her hand and led her to his worktable. "For now, the people will be able to buy food with their money."

Asenath looked up at him. "What will they do when they've spent all their money?"

"Exactly! That's what I asked. I've mapped out a plan how to help the Egyptians, yet honor Pharaoh. See, over her--"

A servant knocked on the door. Joseph looked up. "Yes? Is there a problem?"

The servant bowed to Joseph. "Foreigners have come to buy food. What do you want us to do?"

Joseph nodded. "I'll be right there." He signaled the servant to leave then turned to his wife. "The famine is greater than Egypt!"

"But, you can't give them our food." Asenath ran to the balcony. "What if we run out before the famine ends? Think of our people, think of your sons."

Joseph stepped next to her. "Don't worry. Everything will work out. God warned of the famine to help us prepare. He provided not only grain for all Egypt to last seven years, but also, food for others. We must share. Egypt will be honored among all other nations."

She turned to him. "You're really sure God will make the food last seven years, aren't you."

He took a deep breath and smiled. "Yes. I truly am."

Asenath shrugged and laughed. "Then, dear husband, you must go help those foreigners."

Joseph ran down the stairs and out to the distribution area. The grand plaza, set up with rows for people to line up for food, was packed. Trained guards kept the crowds moving in a peaceful order. One approached Joseph. "The fourth line, over there, has the foreigners I spoke to you about."

"Yes, I see. They're clothes alone tell they're not Egyptian." Joseph shifted his weight to one leg. "We'll have plenty to sell to others who are starving. Sell them grain."

The guard walked to the table and whispered to the worker. Joseph followed.
As he neared one table, he noticed a group of ten men talking with each other. They looked familiar. He listened to their voices. Could it be? He turned away then looked back. No, not possible. He squinted to see their faces. Those are--my brothers!

Joseph couldn't make up his mind how he felt. Anger pushed through his veins because his brothers sold him as a slave. Disappointment crushed his heart because he'd been robbed of the chance to be with his father or brothers in many years. Concern made his heart race because he didn't know if his father was still alive. Should he run up to brothers and greet them? Would they care--would they even care? What should Joseph do?

Egyptian Famine Word Search

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: Todays wordsearch takes words from the recent posts on Egypt's famine. Can you find the words listed below the puzzle?



Can you find these words:
Bread
Egypt
Famine
God
Grain
Hungry
Interpreter
Irrigate
Joseph
Pharaoh
Rain
Salvation
Water
mEN

WHEN YOU FIND ALL THE ANSWERS, CLICK THE COMMENT BUTTON TO TELL US YOU FINISHED:)

HERE IS THE ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S CROSSWORD PUZZLE:



HOW DID YOU DO? Click on the comment button to tell us.

Egyptian Grain- Like the Sand of the Sea

By Mary Vee
Genesis 41:46-55

Everything moved according to Joseph's directions. Egyptians built large buildings to store grain. No one was permitted to keep more than they needed. The entire country worked together to gather extra grain.

Sure, every once in a while, Joseph heard about some greedy person who kept more than they needed. He knew the importance of justice. If even one person kept extra grain and got away with it, others would follow. Joseph ordered consequences that were fair, but strong enough to helped Egyptians understand the need to store food.

One year, the baker surprised Pharaoh with a large platter of his favorite baked breads for his birthday. Pharaoh took in a deep breath. "Baker, you have tempted me with the finest of breads. Give me a portion, then divide the remains to others. And, Baker--"

The baker took a step back and cowered.

Pharaoh lowered his voice. "Never bake such indulgences unless I request it. Such request will not be made until the famine is over."

The baker bowed and obeyed.

Joseph celebrated his 37th birthday shortly before the seven years of great prosperity ended. He turned to his assistant. "The years have passed quickly."

The assistant looked at the many storehouses from the balcony. "Maybe you were wrong. Look at all this grain. There must be more than the sand in the sea. No one can count the grain anymore." He shuffled his feet. "What will we do with all this grain if there isn't a famine?"

Joseph smiled. "God is never wrong. If He said there would be a famine in seven years, then it will be so." He walked away laughing. "You worry too much. I'm going to play with my sons for the afternoon."

The assistant folded his arms. "Will you train Manasseh to follow in your steps? Will he speak of famine?"

Joseph shrugged. "He will be as God leads. God gave me Manasseh to help me forget all my troubles and my father's house. Ephraim, little Ephraim, has reminded me how God let me be fruitful even in a land I was sold as a slave. Now, I'm going to have some fun with my sons."

A week later a messenger came before the council. Pharaoh called his wise men to be quiet. Joseph leaned forward to hear the message. "The rains have stopped. All our irrigation ditches have dried up. The crops have wilted and died."

Joseph sighed. "The famine has begun."

No one spoke for several moments.

Pharaoh nodded to Joseph. "The interpretation is true. Go. Save Egypt from the famine."

Joseph knew the grain in the people's homes wouldn't last long. He called for the teams organized to head up food distribution. "Listen. The people will come soon asking for food. We must be ready."

Two weeks later Egyptians lined up to speak to Pharaoh. Each asked the same question: "What shall we do? Our families are hungry. There isn't any food." Pharaoh walked out to the balcony for all to see. He raised his hands to hush the crowd. "Go to Joseph; whatever he says to you, do."

Did the people obey? Why did Pharaoh send the people to Joseph? Pharaoh could have taken credit for all the work by giving instructions. But he didn't. He let the people know Joseph was in charge of the food. Why did he do that? Click on the comment button to give your thoughts.

Pharaoh Promotes Joseph

By Mary Vee
Genesis 41: 37-45

Pharaoh stared closely into the eyes of the slave standing before him. His interpretation of the dream makes sense. He does seem rather bold. Imagine giving advice to me. Him, a mere slave. Yet, his advice rings true. Pharaoh rock his head back and forth to loosen his stiff neck.

"Well, you wise men and magicians, what do you think of Joseph's words?"

Everyone looked first at someone else then back at Pharaoh. They nodded their approval.

Pharaoh took a deep breath and released the air. "I see you are in agreement." He folded his arms. "Where can we find such a wise man to set over the land to protect us from this famine destined to come? Is there one in whom is the Spirit of God?"

The wise men and magicians looked toward Joseph and conferred softly with each other. Pharaoh held up his hands to stop their discussions.

He turned toward Joseph. "Inasmuch as God has shown you all that will happen to Egypt in the next 14 years, there is no one as discerning and wise as you. You shall be over my house."

Pharaoh looked at his wise men while speaking to Joseph. "All my people shall be ruled according to your word; only in regard to the throne will I be greater than you."

He faced Joseph once again. "See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt." Pharaoh pulled his signet ring off his hand and put it on Joseph's hand.

Joseph's eyes grew wide. How God has blessed! Only this morning I was in prison, and now God has chosen me to help Egypt.

Potifer turned to a steward. "Take Joseph to living quarters suiting to his rank. Dress him in fine linen clothes and put a gold chain around his neck."

An hour later Joseph appeared in Potifer's throne room dressed as a high ranking official. Potifer nodded his approval.

He signaled Joseph to approach then turned to the steward. "By my word, Joseph is to ride in the second finest chariot I own. Take him about the city that all may see him. Cry out, 'Bow your knee!' to all you see. Let them know that Joseph is second only to me."

Pharaoh turned to Joseph and smiled. "I am Pharaoh. Without your consent, no man may lift his hand or foot in all the land of Egypt. I have spoken. You shall be given an Egyptian name suitable to your rank. You shall now be called Zaphnath-Paanea."

Joseph spent the late afternoon touring the city of Egypt. They bowed their knee as commanded by the one crying out instructions in front of his chariot. After the tour, the servants brought Joseph back to Pharaoh.

Pharaoh clapped his hands together. "Bring me Asenath, daughter of Poti-Pherah." Two servants left the room. Pharaoh turned to Joseph. "I am giving you Asenath to be your wife."

Joseph bowed. "Thank you Pharaoh. I will do my best to protect Egypt from starving during the great famine God has warned us about."

Pharaoh dismissed Joseph and his new wife. He sat back on his throne and signed. This day started with so many problems. But now, with Joseph and God's help--I know everything is going to be fine. He closed his eyes and took a peaceful nap.

Joseph has led quite an adventurous life since he left that one day to help his brothers. Let's see, his brothers threw him in a deep pit, sold him to traders who took him to Egypt and sold him to Potifer, Potifer's wife accused him of hurting her, and he was thrown in prison. How did today's story show God had a plan for Joseph?

But his story isn't over yet. Will he be able to help Egypt? Will his plan work? Will the people of Egypt follow his instructions when they find out he isn't an Egyptian? How is he going to find enough food for all those people. How will it last for seven years? So many questions to answer. Come back on Saturday to see what happens next.

Dreams Crossword Puzzle

By Mary Vee

Directions: Find the word that best fits the description below. CLICK THE COMMENT BUTTON TO SAY YOU FINISHED:)




ACROSS
5. Didn't know the meaning
6. Who told Pharaoh about Joseph
9. God said 1st 7 years would be
10. Did magicians believe Joseph?
13. Had a scary dream

DOWN
1. God said 2nd 7 years would be
2. Where Joseph was earlier that day
3. ____ cows ate the fat cows
4. ____ grain ate healthy grain
7. Number of dreams Pharaoh had that night
8. Told Pharaoh God's meaning of the dream
11. Second dream had
12. First dream had


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Here is the answer to last week's puzzle:



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Joseph's Gift

by Mary Vee
Genesis 41:14-

Joseph sat down for the first time in hours. He'd spent most of the night with one interruption from the prisoners after another. His eyes drooped. He heard himself snore, but he didn't care. Sleep--finally.

A loud bang suddenly woke him. Joseph's eyes popped open. He looked around the drafty, torch-lit prison and realized the captain of the guard stood at the window. Joseph bolted to the outer prison door. "Yes, Captain?"

"Pharaoh summoned you." The door lock chinked.

"Me? Pharaoh wants me?" Oh no. What have I done?

The guard yanked the heavy door open and signaled Joseph to come forward. "Let's go. I'm going to miss you. No one's done a better job of headin' up the prisoners. No matter, you'll have to be cleaned up to make an appearance before Pharaoh."

Joseph followed the guard through the outer prison court. Fresh air filled his lungs for the first time in years. He shaded his eyes from the bright sun. On the other side of the court stood a small structure. Three servants ran out to greet them.

The captain nudged Joseph forward. "Clean this man up. Give him clean clothes. He's to go before Pharaoh as soon as possible. Get moving."

The servants bowed. "Yes, Captain."

Although Joseph had to wear Egyptian clothing as a slave in Potifer's house, he never liked it. Joseph looked down at himself. The clothes the servants dressed him in were worse. How can they wear these clothes?

The servants escorted him out to the captain. "He's ready, Captain."

The guard escorted Joseph to Pharaoh's throne room. They stood at the door until given a signal to approach. Joseph kept his eyes lowered. Who are all these people? Is this a trial? The guard pressed Joseph forward. Joseph kept in step as they past a crowd of men. The captain of the guard stopped a short distance before the throne.

Joesph bowed. The men behind him whispered. What are they saying?

Pharaoh quieted the men. "Joseph, I have had a dream and there is no one who can interpret it. But I have heard it said of you that you can understand a dream, to interpret it."

Joseph raised his head slightly. "It is not in me to do so. God will give Pharaoh an answer of peace."

Pharaoh nodded. He studied Joseph for a moment then told him his dreams. "What is the interpretation?"

Joseph paused to listen to God. "The dreams of Pharaoh are one. God has shown Pharaoh what He is about to do. The seven good cows are seven years, and the seven good heads are seven years, the dreams are one. And the seven thin cows are seven years as are the seven diseased heads of grain are seven years of famine. God has shown Pharaoh what He is about to do. Indeed seven years of great plenty will come throughout all the land of Egypt; but after them seven years of famine will arise. At that time all the plenty will be forgotten in the land of Egypt and the famine will deplete the land. The famine will be very severe. The dream was repeated twice because the thing is established by God and God will shortly bring it to pass."

"Now, let Pharaoh select a discerning and wise man and set him over the land f Egypt. Also, appoint officers to collect one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt in the seven plentiful years and store up grain under the authority of Pharaoh. Then that food shall be a reserve for the land for the seven years of famine that the land may not perish."

What will Pharaoh say? Will he be angry that Joseph gave advice after interpreting the dreams without being asked? What will happen to Joseph? If you had been Joseph, what would you have done?

Pharaoh's Nightmare

By Mary Vee
Genesis 41:1-13

Pharaoh went to bed late after celebrating yet another birthday. His closest, and trusted adviser bowed and stepped backward to leave the room. "Good night, Pharaoh."

Pharaoh shook his head. "Yet another birthday."

His adviser stopped and raised his eyes. "A delightful party! Not as exciting as the time you honored the servants."

"Ahh, yes." Pharaoh nodded and chuckled. "Two years ago. I'll never forget the look on the baker's face. He thought I wouldn't find out what he did. Well, I showed him, and all the other servants at the party. They can't hide the truth from me."

The adviser stroked his beard. "And your butler has remained a faithful servant."

"True, he has. I felt bad about throwing him in prison with the baker. Yet, I needed to discover the truth. Fortunately I did, and in time to present my verdict at the party."

"Wise choice, Pharaoh."

"You may take your leave." Pharaoh yawned and crawled into bed. He pulled the blankets close to block a cool breeze and fell asleep within seconds. That night he had a frightening dream. He suddenly awoke. Sweat puddled on his forehead. His body trembled and his heart raced. After looking around the room to be sure everything was save he fell asleep again. Again he had a disturbing dream.

The next morning Pharaoh rubbed his shoulders. His muscles ached. He felt like he hadn't slept at all. "Steward!"

Seconds later the steward entered. "Yes, Pharaoh?"

"Gather all the magicians of Egypt" Pharaoh paced in front of his bed. "--and all the wise men!" He clapped his hands twice. "--at once!"

Later that morning Pharaoh stood before the magicians and wise men of Egypt. "I had a disturbing dream last night. You must tell me what it means." He sat on his throne and took a deep breath. "Last night I found myself near the river. Seven cows, fine looking and fat walked out of the water onto the shore. Clearly they ate of the rich, nearby meadow. As they stood on the water's edge, seven skinny, ugly cows walked out of the water. They stood for a moment next to the fat cows. Then, before my eyes, the skinny, ugly cows ate up the fine looking, fat cows."

The wise men and magicians' eyes went wide. The butler offered Pharaoh something to drink.

Pharaoh took a sip and set the cup down. He leaned forward. "There was a second dream. This time I stood in a field. Before me, seven heads of grain came up on one stalk. They appeared plump and good to eat. Next, seven thin heads, marred with disease from the east wind sprang up. The seven thin heads of grain suddenly devoured the seven plump, healthy heads." Pharaoh reached for his cup again, closed his eyes, and took a sip. He set the cup back down. "Well? What is the meaning of my dreams?"

The magicians and wise men shrugged their shoulders and shook their heads. One spoke out, "Pharaoh, this indeed is disturbing. The meaning is too great for us to know."

The butler stepped back and gasped. He bowed to Pharaoh.

Pharaoh turned to him and squinted. "What? Butler"

The butler bit his lower lip. "I'm sorry, Pharaoh. I've forgotten a message. When you were angry with your servants you sent both me and the chief baker to prison in the house of the captain of the guard. We each had a dream one night; each with it's own meaning. There was a young Hebrew man there, a servant of the captain of the guard. We told him our dreams and he interpreted them for us, giving each his own meaning. Everything he said came true. Pharaoh restored me to my office and hung the baker."

Pharaoh stood and folded his arms. "Well, what was his name?"

"I believe it was Joseph, Pharaoh"

"Guard! Find Joseph and bring him to me--at once!"

Is Joseph in trouble? Will Joseph be able to help Pharaoh? Why did Pharaoh have these dreams? Click on the comment button to answer. Stop back on Saturday to see what happens next.

Joseph's Code

By Mary Vee

HAVE FUN!





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Here is the answer to last week's puzzle:

Pharaoh's Birthday Party

By Mary Vee
Genesis 40:20-23

Pharaoh sat back in his throne. He scanned to the right and left at his guests busily drinking, eating, and laughing. Some danced to the festive music composed specially for this birthday celebration others listened intently to lively conversation. Pharaoh clapped his hands together. The music stopped and the guests quieted down. "Bring forth the chief butler and chief baker."

The butler and baker's eyes grew wide. They looked at each other then at hundreds of eyes staring at them. The baker gulped and the butler wiped sweat from his brow.

"Come forth," Pharaoh commanded. The chief guard gave them a nudge forward. The butler abruptly threw his hands out to keep from falling. Their boots clattered on the floor one--step--at--a--time. The butler bit his lower lip as his legs marched forward, nearing death. Pharaoh picked up his glass and held it high then rose before his guests. He paused a moment. "You who are in this hall today are honored. No other has been chosen to attend this celebration of my birthday. You've served me well." The guest applauded. Pharaoh raised his hand and they quieted. "And now, in your presence, I've decided to announce my judgment regarding the butler and baker in your presence. Step forth, Chief Butler."

The Butler sighed. His eyes scanned to the right and left then he looked at the ceiling and whispered a few words. Pharaoh lowered his head to stare into the Butler's eyes. "You have been found innocent."

A servant stepped forward and placed the king's cup in the butler's hand. The butler smiled and filled the cup. He tasted the drink to be sure it had no poisons, waited a moment then handed it to Pharaoh. "Your drink."

Pharaoh raised the cup and sipped. He smacked his lips together and nodded. "You are hereby restored to your position as chief butler."

The Butler closed his eyes and bowed. "Thank you, Pharaoh." The guests applauded and cheered.

Pharaoh straightened his back and pressed his shoulders. "Baker, step forward." The baker boldly stepped forward, flicked himself in a quick bow then raised his eyes. Pharaoh scowled. "Baker, you are guilty, as I suspected."

The guests gasped and stepped back. Pharaoh raised his voice toward the guests. "That you all may know, Pharaoh will discover any evil act--" He turned to the guards and flung his left arm in the direction of the court. "Take him. Hang him--now!"

The baker's jaw dropped. He collapsed to his knees and pressed his hands together. "No! Pharaoh. I beg you. It will never happen again! Please. My family--I--I--" His voice faded as the guards dragged him out of the banquet hall. The doors slammed behind them.

The banquet hail stood silent.

Moments later Pharaoh cleared his throat. "It is my birthday. Start the music."

The guests looked at each other. They appeared to be frozen. Then one note sprang from an instrument, followed by another. The music invited all to dance. Some did. Some did not.

The butler sighed and sauntered to his seat. He sat down and tapped his fingers on the table. He turned to a friend. "I'm forgetting something."

"What?"

"Well, if I knew, then it wouldn't be forgotten. What was it--I promised someone I would do, or say, or go--oh, maybe it will come to me tomorrow. Let's eat."

The Bible tells us God has kings, or pharaohs, or any other who rules to do His will--even the one's that don't believe in Him. How do you think Pharaoh found out that the baker was guilty instead of the butler? Why did the Pharaoh really invite the servants to his birthday party? What lesson did you learn from this Bible story?

Baked Goods For Pharaoh

By Mary Vee
Genesis 40: 16-20

A cool breeze swooped through the prison window. Joseph shivered. The butler did as well, but only for a moment. The good news about being released from the dungeon in three days made him laugh and clap his hands.

The baker slapped the butler on the back. "Great news. I suspect my fortune will be the same." He turned to Joseph. "I had this weird dream that I was in as well. Let me tell you what happened so you can give me my good news."

The butler smiled. "Yeah. Hurry and tell him. Then we can celebrate together."

The baker rubbed his hands together as clouds blocked sun rays from shining in through the prison window. A brisk wind whistled through the bars. The baker faced Joseph. "Three white baskets sat upon my head. The top basket had all kinds of warm breads and freshly baked goods ready to serve Pharaoh. Suddenly a flock of birds swooped down on me and ate the food right out of the basket." He folded his arms together and nodded. "Now, tell me of my good fortune."

Once again God gave Joseph the meaning of the dream. Joseph gazed into the baker's eyes and sighed. "This is the interpretation of your dream. The three baskets are three days. Within three days Pharaoh will lift off your head from you and hang you on a tree. The birds will flock to you and eat your flesh from you."

The baker took two steps back and fell to the ground. "Please let it not be so. I didn't mean to do what I did."

The butler's jaw dropped. "It was you! It was you all along? I'm in this dungeon because of you?"

The baker held his hands together. "Honest. I didn't think Pharaoh would find out. What are you mad about, anyway? You get to go back to Pharaoh's service, but in three days I'm--I'm--"

Joseph turned and closed the door. He bolted the lock. The baker's lamenting seeped through the door and followed Joseph up the stairs.

Three days later the captain of the guard opened the window of the outer prison door. "Joseph. Bring me the butler and the baker. Seems Pharaoh decided to celebrate his birthday by throwing a party for his servants."

"He is?"

"You know Pharaoh. He does what he wills. Now, bring me the butler and the baker. They are to attend the party."

Joseph hurried to their cell and unbolted the door. "You've been invited to Pharaoh's birthday party. He's decided to honor all his servants, don't ask me why."

Suspicious looks fell on their faces. Then the baker wiped sweat from his brow and smiled. "Look's like you were wrong, Joseph." He swiped his hands together. "Let's go to a party."

The butler shrugged. "Maybe you're free. Still, I'd much rather not have spent these last three days in the dungeon."

Joseph opened the outer door. I hope the butler remembers me when he is restored to service.

Will the butler be restored to Pharaoh's service? Was Joseph wrong about the baker's dream? Will the baker get away with his crime? Will the butler remember to mention Joseph to Pharaoh? Stop by to read the next story to find out.

Joseph's Keys Maze

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: Help Joseph find the keys.



HOW DID YOU DO? Click on the comment button to say you found the answer.



HERE IS THE ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S WORD SEARCH:

The Butler

By Mary Vee
Gen 40:1-15

"Joseph, got a job for you."

Joseph set his load down and glanced toward the jail door.

The captain had given Joseph charge over all the prisoners allowing him to decide what each man did. The last thing Joseph wanted to do was sit around a prison cell day in and day out. He liked the work--the chance to think--to organize and improve the prison system--quite under the authority of the captain, of course.

Most likely no one outside of the prison knew of Joseph's ideas and how he improved the budget yet insured all prisoners received essentials. Fighting decreased among the inmates, protests ceased, cooperation increased. The captain enjoyed taking credit for the improvements. In exchange, he made sure Joseph had whatever he needed to get the job done.

Joseph approached the jail door. "What can I do for you?"

The door groaned wide enough to allow two men to fall forward. The guard slammed the door and peeked through the window. "Seems the butcher and baker got themselves into trouble with the king. You know what to do."

Joseph bowed his head. "Yes, Captain."

He led them down a dark hall to a stairwell. Narrow steps curved down and disappeared into an inky black emptiness. Joseph grabbed their hand chains and pulled them forward. "You're bunking in the south wing tonight." At the bottom of the stairs Joseph unlocked a door and pulled it open. "Here you are, accommodations for those who offend the king." Joseph shoved them into the cell and closed the door. He dropped the bolt then returned to his duties.

The next morning Joseph grabbed a torch and walked down the spiral stairs to check on the Butcher and Baker. He opened the door and shoved in some bread. The Butcher and Baker didn't move. Joseph looked at their troubled faced. Glimmers of sun rays poked through a tiny window near the ceiling. "What's wrong?"

They looked at each other then back at Joseph. "We each have had a dream, and there is no interpreter."

Joseph leaned against the door post. "God is the one who interprets dreams. Tell me your dream and I will ask Him what it means."

The chief butler rubbed his finger through his hair. He nervously folded his arms. "In my dream I saw a vine right before me. The vine had three branches which had budded with huge blossoms that seem to shoot forward. And from these blossoms were the most magnificent clusters of ripen grapes I've ever seen. I looked down and found Pharaoh's cup. I took the grapes and pressed them into the cup to until it reached the perfect color. I swirled the liquid around. Then, before my eyes Pharaoh appeared, sitting on his throne. I placed the cup in his hand." The butler let his arms fall to his side. "What does this mean?"

Joseph suddenly realized God gave him the answer. "This is the interpretation of your dream. The three branches are three days. Within three days Pharaoh will lift your head and restore you to your place. You will once again place Pharaoh's cup in his hand as you did before."

The butler smiled wide. "Three days? Three days and I return to Pharaoh's service? That is fantastic. Thank you."

Joseph smiled. "All I ask is that you remember me when all is well for you. Please show kindness to me. Make mention to Pharaoh and get me out of this prison. I was taken captive from the land of the Hebrews--I didn't do anything that would earn me time in this dungeon."

The butler rubbed his hands together. "Three days, I'll be out of here in three days." He looked back at Joseph and clapped his hands together. "Of course I'll tell the Pharaoh what you did for me. Don't worry. I won't forget."

What about the Baker's dream? Stop by next Wednesday to read about his dream. In the meantime let's talk about today's story. Joseph could have chosen to leave the butler and baker alone. Many prison guards did. Instead, he faithfully did his prison duty even though he didn't like it. As a result, the butler saw Joseph's testimony. What did Joseph do that let this Egyptian butler know he loved God? How can we do the same?

The Prison Door

By Mary Vee
Gen 39:7-23

The prison door screeched as the guard yanked it open. "Says here in my orders you hurt Potifer's wife. Pretty dumb move, I'll say."

Joseph's head lowered. Not wanting to be struck again, he whispered, "I didn't do anything to her."

The guard laughed. "Yeah. That's what they all say." He pushed Joseph toward the keeper of the prison. "Take this slave and lock him up. Potifer's orders."

The keeper looked up from his work. "What'd he do?"

"You've got your orders!" The guard pushed Joseph closer to the keeper. "Take 'im and lock him up until Potifer decides to release him--or until he dies." The guard walked away laughing.

The Keeper inspected his new prisoner. "Must've been pretty bad what you did." Joseph kept his head low. The keeper faced him. "You seem a respectable kind of person--not wrenching at your chains or squirming to escape. Still, I'll keep my eye on you. If you prove your worth, I'll give you some freedom within the prison."

Joseph whispered, "Thank you, Sir."

"This way." The keeper led Joseph down a hall then down narrow, steep stairs. He chose not to pull Joseph by the chain wrapped around his neck like the guard had. "You're not like the others who are brought here. What did you do?"

Joseph sighed. If I report the truth, he might strike me. What do I say? He cleared his throat. "I was bought to be a slave in Potifer's house a few months ago. He liked my work. He appointed me to oversee his household. All went well."

The keeper stopped. "So what happened?"

"One day when the servants all had work outside the house, Potifer's wife asked me to spend time with her." He paused and closed his eyes. "I told her no. I needed to do my work. I wanted to please Potifer by finishing an important task he assigned. She followed me around. Before I knew it, she screamed and then told all the servants and Potifer I had mocked her."

The keeper unlocked a prison cell door. "I don't know if your story is true, but, like I say, if you show your worth, I'll give you freedoms in this prison." He pulled the door open.

Joseph walked inside and stared at the dark walls then at the keeper. The door slammed shut with an echo. He slid to the floor and wept. "Oh God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob--how did I get here? How have I displeased you?"

He woke the next morning swiping tears from his face. The prison door opened. The keeper shoved water and moldy bread inside the cell. Joseph sat up. "Thank you."

The keeper cocked his head. "Never in my life have I seen a prisoner like you." He turned away, paused, then turned back. "I could use help with my work. I'll give you a chance to prove your salt. Grab your food and follow me."

Joseph scurried forward, scooped up his food and followed the prison keeper. The keeper led the way to the food supply. "Pharaoh never gives me enough workers. You feed the rest of the prisoners while I take care of other duties."

Joseph swallowed the bread, ignoring the worms, and rubbed the crumbs from his mouth. "Yes, Sir."

Days went by. Joseph found himself doing more and more duties for the prison keeper. After a month, the keeper simply gave Joseph a list of duties without checking up on him. With every task, Joseph made sure to talk about God. He let those around him know God gave him the strength and desire to do his work. He praised God for successes.

One day the keeper of the prison stopped Joseph. "I'm pleased with your work. This prison has never run so well. Your God is making everything in this prison prosper. We have enough food. The prisoners have behaved better. Everything under your supervision has improved."

Joseph lowered his head a little. "Thank you, Sir."

Genesis 39 Word Puzzle

By Mary Vee

Directions: Find the words listed below in the puzzle. Click on the comment button to say you found all the words. Have fun!



Ishmaelite
hot
chains
desert
slave
sold
brothers
remember
praiseGod
Joseph
Egypt
market
journey
mansion
riches
Potifer

HOW DID YOU DO? REMEMBER; CLICK THE COMMENT BUTTON AND TELL US THAT YOU FOUND ALL THE WORDS:)

ANSWER to last week's Easter riddle:

Christ the Lord is risen, Alleleluia!

Joseph's Work

By Mary Vee
Genesis 39:2-5

Joseph's jaw dropped as he followed the steward into Potifer's home. The ceilings reached far above his head, magnificent paintings covered many walls, costly drapes flowed across windows. His toes curled back into the sandal each time they touched the cold marble floors. Servants bustled back and forth carrying out their duties.

The steward slowed his pace. "Keep your head low when Potifer speaks to you. Obey any instruction, and be sure to keep any answer short. He doesn't want a friend, he wants a servant."

Joseph wiggled his shoulders. The Egyptian's slave clothing felt weird. They didn't wear tunics like he use to wear. He didn't like the way he looked.

The steward glanced at him. "Stop wiggling. You'll get use to our way of life or spend your future days in the prison." He gruffly laughed.

A few steps further the steward stopped at the doorway to a large hall. Three large rows of tables in the shape of a "U" took up space to the left. A man dressed in unusual clothing turned. He stood as one who had great power and wealth. "Is this the new slave?"

The steward bowed; Joseph copied the movements. "Yes, Potifer."

"Bring him forward."

The steward pushed Joseph guiding him toward the master of the house. Joseph stopped a few paced before Potifer. He lowered his head. Potifer came closer and inspected the new slave. "He has muscles, he appears healthy, and he has displayed proper respect." He waved his hand and turned away. "He will do. Put him to work."

Sparks of happiness pumped the next few beats in Joseph's heart. I was approved to work in this place. God has taken care of me, despite being sold as a slave by my brothers.

He followed the steward down the hall. The steward tapped a small whip on his leg. "Take care to do all you're told. If you behave, you'll find Potifer to be a kind master. If you make him unhappy, he'll throw you in prison."

Joseph nodded. The next few weeks Joseph found himself scrubbing floors, moving heaving things, and serving food. The steward came to him one night. "Potifer is pleased with you work. He wants you to work as my assistant."

Joseph didn't know whether his heart pounded for nervousness or excitement. Either way he followed the steward's every instruction. The work seemed easy. Joseph discovered new ways to do things. One night the steward met him in a hall. Joseph bowed and held his head low. "If I may, I'd like to show you some ideas. Quick, easy ways to do the work."

The steward folded his arms and squinted his eyes. "We've done the job this way ever since I've been in this house." He paused. "Still, perhaps new ideas would be good." The steward listen and watched Joseph demonstrate. "Well, now. I think this will work. Tomorrow, we'll do this job your way."

Each day new ideas popped into Joseph's head. The steward met with him each night. One morning the steward took Joseph to Potifer's room. Potifer signaled for Joseph to approach. The slave bowed before the master of the house. Potifer took a step closer. "I've noticed your work. You have proven a trustworthy and dedicated servant. My house has prospered since you have come. Clearly the Lord is with you. From this day forward you shall be overseer of my house. Everything will be under your authority."

Joseph felt like leaping into the air--but he didn't. He simply smiled as he kept his head lowered. God has blessed this house and even Potifer's fields. Truly God has taken care of me.

Have you noticed how your heart feels when you do a job someone asked you to do? Sometimes your heart beats wildly like it's laughing. Sometimes it whooshes like a loaded train car climbing a hill. What makes the difference? One day your heart laughs when you take out the trash, the next day it whooshes when you take out the trash...what happened? What is God showing you?

A Slave's Journey to Egypt

By Mary Vee
Genesis 39:1

The sun baked Joseph's skin. Since his brothers stole his coat of many colors he only had a thin tunic to wear. Sweat dripped down his forehead and into his eyes. He tried to blink it away. Instead his vision blurred. He tugged at the ropes holding him prisoner at the back of an Ishmaelite caravan. "If only I could wipe the sweat off my face."

"You best be quiet." Another slave whispered to him. "They catch you talking and they'll rope your neck, or beat you."

Joseph looked up and saw an Ishmaelite glaring back at him. His foot smacked into a rock causing him to stumble. He bit his tongue to keep from crying out.

Joseph thoughts swirled from memories of being thrown into a deep pit by his brothers to eating juicy figs with his father and mother to freezing the night before while trying sleep without a blanket on the cold desert sand. How did he get here? Where was he going? What would happen to him?

His stomach growled. The Ishmaelites gave him only a small piece of bread and a cup of water for supper. Breakfast wasn't any better. He closed his eyes and pictured the roasted lamb served a few nights ago. Mother made her special broth and fresh bread to go along with the meat. Joseph signed. I thought I was too full to ever eat again.

The caravan came to a stop. Joesph raised his elbow to wipe sweat on his upper arm then blinked the bright sun from his eyes. He for forced his tongues to find moisture to lick his lips. "So thirsty."

One of the Ishmaelites pressed his way toward Joseph. He raised his whip. "Did I hear one of you slaves speak?" Joseph's eyes went wide and he shook his head. The man lowered his whip. "I suppose you're thirsty?" Joseph and the other slaves lowered their heads. The man laughed. "Well, we can't have you dieing of thirst, now can we. Can't hardly sell you for a good price that way?" He guffawed and reached for his water skin. "Take a drink. Not much, mind you." He poured some water in Joseph's mouth. "By tomorrow, you'll fetch me a good price, no doubt."

Joseph held the the water in his mouth to wash the mucky film away. He swallowed the water and looked toward the sky. Thank you God for the drink.

The next day the caravan entered Egypt. Joseph passed noisy marketplaces filled with merchants selling food, blankets, and jewelry. Musicians played strange music and the people wore strange cloths. Joseph was so busy looking around he hadn't noticed that the caravan stopped. He walked right into the back of a camel.

An Ishmaelite untied his ropes and grabbed the end. He tied the slave's ropes together and held his whip high. "Try to escape and you'll regret it." He led Joseph and the other slaves to a platform. "Stand in a straight line."

A second Ishmaelite raised his hands before the crowd. "We have collected the finest slaves to serve you. We've searched far and wide to bring you the best. Look here at their muscles." Someone pushed Joseph forward. "Now here is fine slave. Strong, healthy. What is your bid?"

A well dressed man pushed his way to the front. "There will be no bidding. I will buy him for Potifer." He handed the slave trader a bag of coins and signaled for Joseph's release.

The Ishmaelite opened the pouch and nodded. "Release the slave to him."

Joseph kept his eyes toward the ground and stumbled forward. The well dressed man grabbed the rope and led Joseph through the marketplace toward the edge of the city. At the end of the street was a home large enough to be a palace. The man led Joseph through the gate to a small building. "Akhom." An older man opened the door. "Take this slave and clean him up. Prepare him to work in Potifer's house."

Joseph's trip to Egypt would not be the kind most people would want to take for a vacation. He was tired, thirsty, hungry, cold, and hot. His feet and arms hurt. He learned quickly to not speak. Yet in the whole trip, the Bible never tells us that he grumbled against his brothers.

Why didn't Joseph grumble? In our story what did he thank God for? How was he able to thank God when everything seemed to be bad? What can we learn from this story?

What Can You Say on Easter Day Riddle

By Mary Vee

DIRECTIONS: Add or subtract letters from each alphabet letter to find the answer





HOW DID YOU DO? CLICK ON THE COMMENT BUTTON TO TELL US YOU FINISHED:)

I hope you printed last week's dot to dot out and made your picture. You should have seen 3 crosses on a hill. Print out another one, connect the dots, color it and give it as a gift to someone you love.

WWJD Part Two

By Mary Vee
Today's story is the second in a two parter. Enjoy this original Easter-time story.

Tom parked the quad he borrowed from Mr. Timm behind Jason's. Jason whipped off his helmet and threw it on the ground. "I guess I understand your not wanting to fight Carl. He put a kid in the hospital last week when he didn't get his bus money."

Tom grabbed his lunch and walked to the edge of Snake Pit Ravine. "It has nothing to do with his smashing me to pieces, although I like my face the way it is." He unpacked his food and bowed his head.

Jason plopped his lunch next to Tom's. "You feeling OK?"

"Yeah." Tom gnawed into his bologna sandwich. "I thanked God for my food."

Jason shook his head and unpacked his food. "Didn't pack much again, huh?"

Tom gazed at Jason's chips, cookies, sandwich, brownies, soda, and jerky. If there was more in my kitchen I'd have packed it. I was lucky to find the bread.

Jason pointed to his chips. "You can have these."

"Thanks."

Off in the distance a motor hummed. Tom stood and looked across the ravine. "Someone's riding through Mr. Timm's pastureland. Isn't that Carl's quad?"

Jason squinted. "Yup. That's him. How'd he get over there? I thought Mr. Timm had that pasture fenced in."

Tom stuffed his food back in the bag and grabbed his helmet. "He does. The only way Carl got over there was if he broke the fence." He hurried back to his quad. "Let's go. We've got to keep the cattle from wandering out."

Tom opened the throttle and ripped along the edge of the ravine toward the fence blowing a dirt cloud behind him. He assumed Jason kept close behind. The ravine narrowed to a shallow gully near the fence line. Tom whipped the 4-wheeler to the left and stopped the engine. He raised his visor and turned to Jason. "Look at that. He rammed his quad into the gate!"

Jason and Tom stared at the damage. The gate had been knocked away from the posts and was laying on the ground. "It was a 4-wheeler that did this all right. My dad had to fix a gate like this one time when a pick-up slid on the ice and rammed into it. My mom complained for months about the cost of fixing it."

Tom sighed. "Mr. Timm doesn't have much. He lost a quarter of his cattle in last year's winter."

"Help me pick it up." Jason grabbed onto one end of the gate. "Maybe we can lean it against the posts for now."

Tom grabbed the other end. Together they heaved the broken pieces up and pushed them toward the posts. The gate slapped against wood. "This won't keep the cattle in. You stay here. I'll get Mr. Timm."

Tom leaped on his quad, yanked his visor into place and flew toward Mr. Timm's house. After explaining what happened, Mr Timm called his ranch hand, grabbed his tools, and hopped in his pickup. "Come on. Show me the spot." Tom sat in the front of the cab and gave directions.

Jason waved as they drove up. "I scared a few cattle away from here while you were gone."

Mr. Timm shook his head while inspecting the broken wood. "This is gonna be expensive. I should have installed a stronger gate." He turned to Tom and Jason. "I sure appreciate you noticing this problem. The herd would have trampled right out and gone who knows where. You boys can head back home. I'll take care of the gate."

Jason gave Tom a ride back to the barn. "I gotta get home. See ya tomorrow."

Tom pulled his bike out of the barn. He took the long way back to give himself time to think. How is Mr. Timm going to afford to fix the fence? He'd never ask for help.

Tom rode down the street where Mr. Proctor's Quad Shop was. He saw a used quad on display. "Hey Mr. Proctor, you lowered the price on that 4-wheeler."

Mr. Proctor wiped greasy hands on a towel. "Sure did. You interested?"

"Well, I--I think I might have enough saved--I--could I take it for a ride?"

"Sure. Don't take long, though. I'm getting ready to close for the day."

Tom stepped toward the quad. He smoothed his hand over the surface. The greasy smell of the shop filled his lungs. Mr. Proctor cleared his throat. "You gonna take that thing for a ride or not?"

Tom swung his leg over the seat and bounced his body into place. He sat for a minute imagining a race against Jason to Snake Pit Ravine. Then he remembered the fence. He rubbed his arm along the handles and grabbed the throttle. It felt good in his hand. Tom bounced on the seat once more before swinging his foot onto the floor. Mr. Proctor looked over his glasses. "Well?"

"Nope. Not today, Mr. Proctor. I used my money on something else. Guess I'll have to start saving for a 4-wheeler tomorrow."