Irish Scripture Scholar Frances Hogan focuses on the culmination of the dramatic events in Joseph's story. Chapter 46 of the Book of Genesis reveals that Joseph, who had been sold into slavery by his brothers, reunites with his father in a deeply emotional moment. The two believed each other to be dead, and their reunion is filled with tears and joy. Joseph takes his family to the land of Goshen, which he had prepared for them. However, he must seek Pharaoh's permission for his brothers to settle there.

In Chapter 47, we see that with Joseph's guidance, they successfully secure Pharaoh's approval for their settlement in Goshen. Pharaoh is impressed by the blessings and importance Joseph bestows upon his family, even blessing Pharaoh himself. As the famine worsens, Joseph implements a plan to sustain the people of Egypt. He exchanges food for livestock, gradually acquiring all the livestock in the land. Eventually, when the people run out of money, Joseph provides them with seeds to cultivate the land and have a harvest. This marks the end of the famine, allowing the people to resume their normal lives.

As time passes, Jacob, now 147 years old, knows that his end is near. He prepares to return to the land of Canaan, the place God had promised to his descendants. In Chapter 48, we see that in the final moments, Jacob blesses Joseph's two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, acknowledging their adoption into the family of Israel and their faith in God.

Bible References:

• Gen. 46:28-30 - Israel arrives at Goshen and Joseph meets his father there
• Gen. 46:31 - Joseph must seek Pharaoh's permission for his brothers 
• Gen. 46:34 - Shepherds are an abomination to the Egyptians
• Gen. 47:5-6 - Pharoah allows Joseph’s family to settle in Egypt
• Gen. 47:7-10 - Jacob blessed Pharoah
• Heb. 11:14 - Life as a pilgrimage
• Gen. 47:11 - They are settling in a land that will be ruled by Rameses
• Gen. 47:13-25 - Joseph’s plan to sustain the people of Egypt
• Gen. 47:27-31 - Jacob’s instruction to Joseph
• Gen. 48:3-5 - Joseph’s two sons are made a part of the people of God
• Gen. 48:14-22 - Jacob blesses Ephraim, Manasseh, and Joseph
• Ex. 15:6 - “Right hand… glorious in power”
• Ps. 16:11, Ps. 20:6 - Blessings of the right hand

Irish Scripture Scholar Frances Hogan takes you through the origin story of God’s people shown to us in the Book of Genesis. Here is an opportunity to explore the early history of God’s people. With historical and Scriptural references, each session will open your eyes to the mystery of God’s creation. 

Frances Hogan: https://www.franceshogan.com/

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