בס”ד

Chanukah

Parashat Mikeitz (From the end) Genesis 41:1-44:17

Maftir Numbers 7:30-35

Haftarah Zechariah 2:14-4:7

A very frightening verse is found in Numbers 32:23 “…Know that your sins will find you out“. This verse proved to be true to the brothers of Joseph who sinned against him by selling him into slavery. Although it took many years, the brothers were reunited in Egypt. There is great spiritual significance in how Joseph delayed in making himself known to them. It is also relevant why Joseph immediately recognized them and why the brothers did not recognize him. However the purpose of this particular blog is to focus in on the fact that it is much better for one to deal with his sins himself, rather than waiting for the sins to find him.

In the book of Leviticus most of the sacrifices are for sins which one committed unintentionally. So what needs to be done about those sins which we commit with intent? Such sins are very problematic under Torah law. This is why those who believe in Messiah Yeshua find so much comfort. His blood is sufficient for total redemption. However a true recipient of Yeshua’s forgiveness does not sin against another and believe that such forgiveness removes our responsibility to do all that is possible to make amends for the violation.

One who truly knows the Living G-d will be moved to go to the one who he has sinned against and not only apologize, but do whatever is possible to correct the damage that the sin caused. Joseph’s brothers were convicted several times by what they had done to Joseph,

“And they said each man to his brother, but guilty are we concerning out brother…this is why this trouble has come upon us.”  Genesis 42:21

Things in life would be much better, if we all reflect on those we have sinned against and be willing to seek not only HaShem’s forgiveness, but also those individuals whom we have sinned against and do true repentance, which includes setting things right when possible.

Shabbat shalom