In the face of tragedy, it’s hard to trust that God is in control. The death of a loved one. The end of a relationship. The loss of a friend. The story of Joseph gives us a glimpse into God’s providence in history. That God continues to care and rule over all his creation, even in the darkest seasons of life.

In Genesis 37, Joseph’s brothers’ envy and anger consume them. They lash out in violence. They strip off Joseph’s robe and throw him into a waterless pit. They sell Joseph to make a quick buck. And all this chaos culminates in their father’s inconsolable grief. Jacob refuses to be comforted and vows that he will mourn into eternity. 

This is a dark chapter in the story. Yet not too dark for God to redeem for his purposes. And if God can work through such chaos - what might he be able to do through your circumstances?

Joseph’s story tears back the curtain and helps us see how God intervenes in history. But greater yet, it anticipates the day when God Himself will enter into the chaos to rescue us from it. In the Cross of Christ, we have confidence that Jesus is making all things new. That he has done away with sin and death forever. 

There is no tragedy in this life that God cannot use for his purposes through you and for you. God will heal every sorrow. God will redeem every tragedy. For we know that for those who love God all things work together for good.

Taking it Home: God does not promise to give answers to all of our “why” questions. Instead, he entered into our darkness to suffer for us on the Cross. We now are invited to extend God’s grace and healing. Who is someone in your life who needs to hear this good news of forgiveness, comfort, and hope today?