Parasha 44: The Love of a Father

 

The Love of a Father

-- T O R A H   P O R T I O N --

Introduction:

What’s the most memorable or sweetest message you received from your father? How can you say that your father loves you?

Last week, Jacob finally met his favourite son Joseph in Goshen. They wept for each other and Jacob told Joseph that he could die already. But the will of Adonai was different from Jacob’s, as He extended his life for another seventeen years. Jacob also met Pharaoh and blessed him. He also witnessed how Joseph dealt with the famine, and lastly, Jacob made a request to Joseph to bury his body in Machpelah as soon as he died. In return, Joseph swore by putting his hand under the thigh of his father.

Our Torah portion starts with the condition of Jacob as he was sick, and the news came to Joseph, and he took with him Manasseh and Ephraim. When they got there, Jacob sat up on the bed and told something very important to Joseph. It’s about the Abrahamic Covenant and its continuation to Jacob. Part of this covenant are the promises of Adonai YHVH that He will make Jacob fruitful and multiply, and He will give the land of Canaan to his descendants as an everlasting possession. Genesis 17:6–8 says:

I will make you very fruitful; I will make nations of you, and kings will come from you. I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you. The whole land of Canaan, where you now reside as a foreigner, I will give as an everlasting possession to you and your descendants after you; and I will be their God.

Now this is what God told Jacob in our Torah portion, Genesis 48:3–4: Jacob said to Joseph, “God Almighty appeared to me at Luz in the land of Canaan, and there he blessed me and said to me, ‘I am going to make you fruitful and increase your numbers. I will make you a community of peoples, and I will give this land as an everlasting possession to your descendants after you.’”

There is a saying that as long as you live, show love to your family, because there are some people who die without even being able to show it. Jacob is about to die. As a dying father and grandfather, how did he show his love for his family?

• He claimed Ephraim and Manasseh as his (v.5). Some commentators use the word adoption for this incident. Since Jacob had twelve sons, each one had the right to a portion of his inheritance. But here, the portion of Joseph became a double through his two sons. We can see here the great plan of Adonai YHVH for the Gentiles since Ephraim and Manasseh’s mother was an Egyptian. Adonai wanted us (Gentiles) to be part of His family. In Ephesians 2:11–13, Paul said, “Therefore remember that you, once Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by what is called the Circumcision made in the flesh by hands, that at that time you were without Messiah, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Messiah Yeshua, you (Gentiles) who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Yeshua.” Also, in Revelation 7:1–8, John saw in his vision that the tribe of Manasseh was included as the children of Israel. Eventually, these two sons of Joseph played a big role for the people of Israel. Joshua the son of Nun came from the tribe of Ephraim, as he led the Israelites to conquer the land of Canaan after the death of Moshe. While Gideon, one of the Judges of Israel, came from the tribe of Manasseh. He was also a military leader, and Adonai called him to spare Israel from the hands of the Midianites (Judges 6).

• He also blessed Ephraim and Manasseh (vv.9–22). In chapter 11 of the book of Hebrews, the author focused on the faith of the Tanakh characters. Unlike the others who were included because of their experiences, obedience, and trust in Adonai, Jacob was included because he blessed Ephraim and Manasseh. Hebrews 11:21: “By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshipped, leaning on the top of his staff.” The way Jacob blessed his two grandchildren parallels his experience with his father Isaac and his brother Esau.

• He gave his last words to his sons (49:1–27). If Joseph could interpret dreams, here Jacob predicted what would befall his sons in the last days. It’s obvious that he prioritized the sons of Leah, then followed the sons of Zilpah and Bilhah. He finally mentioned his two sons from Rachel, the woman he loved more than Leah. The amazing thing from this arrangement is that we can see the redemptive plan of Adonai YHVH for mankind after the fall in the Garden of Eden. From the prediction of Jacob to Reuben, Simeon, and Levi, we can see the wickedness of man. When it comes to the prediction of Jacob to Judah, we can see the Promised Messiah, who would come from this tribe to save mankind from wickedness. Then from the prediction of Jacob to his favourite son Joseph, we can see what would happen to Yeshua as the Suffering Servant, who would be betrayed for the ransom of many.

Because of these last words of Jacob to his twelve sons, and his claim of the two sons of Joseph as his, they were now called the twelve tribes of Israel (Gen. 49:28).

The blessing of the father establishes the houses of the children.

Hebrews 11:21

“By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, and worshipped, leaning on the top of his staff.” 

How do you show love to your family, not only through provision, but through blessing, prayer, and words of faith that will guide them after you are gone?

-- H A F T A R A H P O R T I O N --

In Haftarah, we can see the love of Adonai YHVH for His chosen people:

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• He created and formed them (v.1). The Hebrew word for created is Bara, which means “to create, select, be qualified, and to shape.” While the Hebrew word for formed is Yatsar, which means “to mold, to frame.” Adonai YHVH selected Israel to be His chosen people (Deut. 7:6). Now and then, He’s molding them (Jer. 18:6).Just as Israel was created and formed for His purpose, so too are the grafted-in believers. Romans 11 reminds us that Gentiles are wild olive branches grafted into the cultivated olive tree of Israel. Thus, the same Creator who formed Israel is also forming us into one new man in Messiah (Eph. 2:14–15).
• He redeemed them (v.1b). Adonai called Moshe to speak in His name to Pharaoh, for he abused the Israelites. Adonai told Moshe to tell Pharaoh, “Let My people go.” Here, He wanted to redeem Israel from slavery so they could worship Him in the wilderness.Redemption through the blood of the Lamb is at the center of Israel’s story. Just as Israel was redeemed from Egypt by the blood of the Passover lamb, so we who believe in Yeshua are redeemed by His blood (1 Cor. 5:7). Israel’s redemption points directly to Messiah’s ultimate redemption for both Jew and Gentile.

• He protects them (v.2). Adonai protected Israel through the Red Sea while the Egyptians were chasing them. He also protected the friends of Daniel in the fiery furnace as an illustration of His protection for His people. Yeshua promised the same protection to His disciples: “I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matt. 28:20). Though we pass through tribulation, He preserves His remnant in Israel and His grafted-in family from the nations.

• His presence is always with them (v.5). In spite of Israel’s dispersion, Adonai will gather them and return them to their own land.This is happening before our eyes as Israel is regathered from the nations. At the same time, Yeshua is drawing the nations to Himself so that both Jew and Gentile may worship the Father together (John 4:23). This is the fullness of His love—He gathers His children

Truly, Adonai loves Israel. Hosea 11:1: “When Israel was a youth I loved him, and out of Egypt I called My son.”

Jeremiah 31:3

“I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness.” Jeremiah 31:3

Do you truly live as one who is loved with an everlasting love, or do you still measure your worth by fear, failure, or comparison? How can you rest more deeply in the Father’s faithful love daily?

Where do you need to trust Adonai’s protection and presence in your life right now? Are you walking through “waters” or “fire” that call for deeper faith in His love?

-- APOSTOLIC P O R T I O N --

Our Apostolic portion deals with the message of Yeshua to His talmidim regarding these events. 

He will return to the Father (vv.25–28). If that happened, He assured them that nothing would change in their relationship with His Father, for the Father loves them because of their love for Yeshua.

This reminds us that our access to the Father is not through our own merit but through Messiah Yeshua. Romans 5:2 says, “Through Him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand.” Jew and Gentile alike stand before the Father, loved and accepted, because of Yeshua.

The disciples will scatter (vv.29–32). Yeshua’s talmidim would leave Him, but His Father would be with Him. Yeshua finished His words with an assurance that even though the world would give His talmidim tribulation, from Him they would have shalom.

Just as Israel scattered among the nations, and just as Yeshua’s disciples scattered in fear, Adonai promises to regather. Through Messiah, He restores fellowship. Even when we are faithless, He remains faithful (2 Tim. 2:13).

Yeshua gives shalom (v.33). Yeshua closed with assurance that though the world would bring tribulation, His talmidim would have shalom in Him because He has overcome the world.

This shalom is not just absence of conflict but the wholeness of being restored to the Father through Messiah. For the Jewish people, it affirms covenant hope; for the grafted-in Gentiles, it affirms their adoption into the same covenant family. Together, we share in His victory over the world.

The truest measure of love is not the absence of trials, but the gift of peace in the midst of them.

When the world presses hard against you, do you reach for temporary escape, or do you rest in the lasting shalom that only Yeshua gives?

Romans 8:32

He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all—how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? Romans 8:32

If the Father gave His very best—His Son—what keeps you from fully trusting His love in the midst of trials?

The connection of our Parasha is about the love of a father. In the Torah, Jacob showed his love not only as a father but as a grandfather as well by claiming the two sons of Joseph as his, and he gave his last words to his twelve sons before his death. In the Haftarah, Adonai YHVH, being a Father to Israel, showed His love through redemption, protection, and His abiding presence with His chosen people. In the Apostolic portion, Yeshua assured His talmidim that His Father loves them because they have loved Him.

Returning to my introduction… truly, a father can do many things to show his love for his children. Just like Jacob, he could give treasure or material things. But he chose to give his blessing and last words for his children. Same as Adonai YHVH, for He loved the world, He gave His only begotten Son Yeshua (John 3:16).

Romans 8:35, 39:

Who shall separate us from the love of Yeshua? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Messiah Yeshua our Lord.

A father’s love is measured not by how long he lives, but by how deeply his presence shapes the lives that follow.

Shabbat Shalom,

Topher

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-- S O U R C E S --

Aish.com

Reformjudaism.org

Umjc.org

Fauquierjewishcongregation.org

Thetorah.com

Bethmelekh.com

Forthowardcc.com

Bibleinfo.com

The MacArthur Study Bible

Parasha 43: A Time to Finish Well

 

A Time to Finish Well

-- T O R A H   P O R T I O N --

Introduction:

How do we know when our life’s work is truly finished?

King Solomon, the wisest man that ever lived, said in Ecclesiastes 3:1–2:

“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; A time to plant, and a time to pluck what is planted.” 

What can be the reason for someone to say that he can die already?

Last week, Judah continued to intercede for his brother Benjamin. He told the whole story to Joseph about how he dealt with his father Jacob, just to convince him to let Benjamin go with them back to Egypt. It came to a point that Judah offered himself in exchange for Benjamin, and he didn’t want to add pain to Jacob. Joseph could not restrain himself after he heard it, so finally he revealed himself to his brothers. He fell on Benjamin’s neck and kissed all his brothers and wept over them, and after that his brothers talked with him.

Our Torah portion starts with the meeting of Joseph and his father Jacob. Joseph was excited as he prepared his chariot immediately and went up to Goshen to meet Jacob. Like what he did to his brothers, Joseph fell on the neck of Jacob and wept. This time, instead of asking Joseph about his health, status, or anything, he told Joseph that he could already die.

Why did Jacob say this?

• He saw Joseph’s face and he was still alive (v.30) – I believe the moment Jacob saw his favorite son and realized he was still alive, he felt that his children were in good hands because of Joseph, who was in charge of everything in Egypt. Another thing, now Jacob saw that his children were complete; what more could he ask for?

• His life was hard (v.9) – Ever since Jacob was born, he suffered a lot of hardships:

  • He was struggling with his brother Esau inside the womb of Rebekah.

  • He was not the favorite son of Isaac.

  • His father-in-law deceived him.

  • His wife Rachel died while giving birth.

  • His brother Esau wanted to kill him.

  • He moved away from his family.

  • He had wicked sons (Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah).

  • He was separated from Joseph for a long time.

  • His daughter was raped.

  • His parents died.

Truly, Jacob’s experiences are no joke. We cannot blame him if he was ready to die. But Adonai’s will is different from Jacob’s. Despite what he said, we will see Adonai YHVH’s good plan for him:

• He blessed Pharaoh (v.8) – Here we can see that Jacob, as a servant of Adonai YHVH, is greater than the King of Egypt. He blessed Pharaoh for two things: first, for his generosity. He commanded Joseph to give his family carts and all the best goods in the land of Egypt (Gen. 45:18–21). Second, for his acceptance of Joseph’s family. Imagine, all the persons who went with Jacob to Egypt were sixty-six in all (Gen. 46:26).

• He became a living testimony to Pharaoh (v.8) – After Jacob blessed Pharaoh, he asked his age. Maybe it was the first time for Pharaoh to see a man who reached the age of one hundred and thirty years, and he saw that Jacob’s appearance did not match his age.

• He witnessed how his favorite son Joseph dealt with the famine (vv.13–26) – The famine grew severe in the land of Egypt, and even in Canaan. But because Adonai YHVH favored Joseph with wisdom, he knew what to do. He accepted animals and people’s land in exchange for grain. He also gave seed to the people so they could sow and reap for their food. All these things were witnessed by Jacob, and surely he was proud of Joseph.

• He lived for another seventeen years, and Joseph vowed to him (vv.27–31) – In spite of Jacob being ready to die, Adonai YHVH extended his life for two reasons: first, to remind Joseph that his body should be buried in Machpelah. He let Joseph swear by putting his hand under Jacob’s thigh, which Abraham and Eliezer also did in Gen. 24:9. Since Joseph was living in Egypt for a long time, maybe Jacob thought Joseph’s plan was to bury him there. Second, Jacob’s life was extended because he needed to bless not only the sons of Joseph but also give his last words to his sons as well (Gen. 48–49).

The lesson in our Torah portion is very simple. As long as Adonai YHVH has something that He wants from you, He will continue to use you according to His purpose.

Ephesians 1:11–12
“In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything according to the counsel of His will, that we who first trusted in Yeshua should be to the praise of His glory.”

Feeling finished does not mean we are finished—Adonai alone decides when our story is complete.

Do not surrender to despair when life feels too heavy. Instead, ask: “What purpose does Adonai still have for me today?”

Jacob thought his life could end once he saw Joseph alive, yet Adonai extended his days by 17 years to bless, instruct, and finish well. How might Adonai still want to use your life—right now—even if you feel worn out or at the end?

-- H A F T A R A H P O R T I O N --

In the Haftarah portion, King David gave his last words to his successor Solomon, as he was about to die. David did this because he knew that the key to Solomon’s success depended on the faithful observance of the Torah. In verse 2, David used Joshua 1:8. He told Solomon to be strong, because as the next King of Israel, he would encounter many trials.

In verse 3, David encouraged his son to keep and walk in Adonai’s Torah. The word walk in Hebrew is yalak, which means “to go, walk, come.” While the word keep in Hebrew is shamar, meaning “guard, observe, preserve.” So Solomon should go and observe the Torah, just like the Great Commission that Yeshua gave to His Talmidim (Matt. 28:18–20). That’s the reason why Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes 12:1, which says, “Fear God and keep His Torah, for this is the whole duty of man.”

It’s so nice to see a father who is about to pass away give his son not a material treasure, but something worth more than gold.

Psalm 19:9–11
“The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover, by them Your servant is warned, and in keeping them (Torah) there is great reward.”

The truest legacy is not wealth left behind, but faithful obedience passed forward.

If today were my last, what spiritual inheritance would I leave behind?

David’s charge to Solomon was not about riches or victories, but about keeping Torah and walking faithfully with Adonai. What are you passing on—to your children, disciples, or community—that will outlast your years?

-- APOSTOLIC P O R T I O N --

In the Apostolic portion, what does Yeshua mean when He says “It is finished”? By saying this, He was informing the world that His sacrificial death as the Paschal Lamb was enough, that there was no more need for any sacrifices.

Also, the phrase “It is finished” in Greek is tetelestai, meaning “paid in full,” or “the debt is finished.” So, when Yeshua cried out, He was saying “paid in full,” referring to the debt of sin that was owed to God, now paid off by His death on the cross. Hebrews 9:12–14 says:

“Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption. For if the blood of bulls and goats and the ashes of a heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Yeshua, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”

Yeshua completes and finishes the work of salvation once and for all!

When Yeshua said ‘It is finished,’ He closed the debt of sin and opened the way of life.

Stop striving to earn salvation. Instead, live as one redeemed, showing obedience as the fruit of salvation, and free to serve.

Unlike Jacob and David, whose lives extended into others’ futures, Yeshua declared the ultimate completion: paid in full. How does His finished work free you from fear of death and empower you to live with confidence until your final breath?

The connection of our Parasha is about the end of a meaningful life. In the Torah, when Jacob saw his favorite son Joseph, he told him that he could die already because Joseph was alive. In the Haftarah, David was dying and gave his last words to his successor Solomon, to be strong and obey the Torah of Adonai. In the Apostolic portion, Yeshua gave up His Spirit, for He finished (paid in full) the debt of our sins.

Returning to my introduction… there are people who feel their imminent death. But only Adonai YHVH knows how long our lives will last. Just like Jacob, though he was ready to die, he lived for another seventeen years in the land of Egypt. As long as we live, let’s do our best to serve Adonai and obey His Torah.

A life well finished is not measured by years lived, but by God’s purpose fulfilled.

Our life’s work is finished not when we feel ready, but when Adonai’s purpose through us is complete. Until then, we live as the redeemed—obedient, faithful, and ready to serve. Don’t live as though time is endless. Live each day as one entrusted to you by Adonai—ready to finish well.

Psalm 119:33–34 TLB
“Just tell me what to do and I will do it, LORD. As long as I live I’ll wholeheartedly obey.”

Shabbat Shalom,

Topher

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-- S O U R C E S --

blueletterbible
haaretz.com
jtsa.edu
bethmelekh.com
truthaccordingtoscripture.com
sweetwaternow.com

Parasha 42: Alive for God’s Purpose

Alive for God’s Purpose

-- T O R A H   P O R T I O N --

Introduction:

If God has kept you alive until now, how will you use your life to fulfill His purpose?

The movie The Count of Monte Cristo is about a man who was imprisoned on an island for thirteen years. With the help of his inmate, he escapes and changes his identity for revenge. Soon, he reveals his true identity after seeing the woman he loves.

This week’s parasha asks us: God has given you life—what will you do with it?

Last week, Joseph finally saw his brother Benjamin. He also made a final test for his brothers to see if they had really changed. The steward of Joseph’s house put the silver cup inside the sack of Benjamin, so he could use it as evidence. His brothers defended themselves by recalling the incident when they returned the money which they found in the mouth of their sacks. Upon knowing that the silver cup was found inside the sack of their youngest brother Benjamin, they tore their clothes, for they knew Benjamin would become a slave in Egypt, and Judah pleaded.

Our Torah portion deals with the continuation of Judah’s intercession for Benjamin, and at the same time Joseph finally revealed himself to his brothers. Let me discuss first how Judah intercedes for his brother Benjamin:

1. He humbled himself before Joseph (v.18) – Judah calls Joseph “my lord” while he calls himself “servant.” Going back to verse 17, Joseph told him to go and return in peace to his father. Instead of going back to Canaan, Judah stayed and told Joseph to let him speak a word. He told him not to let his anger burn. Here, the mastermind of selling Joseph to the Ishmaelites (Gen. 37:26) has changed, for he was humble in conversation with Joseph. Proverbs 15:1 says, “A soft word turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

2. He recalls Joseph’s question and how they answered (vv.19–23) – Judah could have started his storytelling with the case of Jacob, but instead he recalls their conversation with Joseph. Why? First, Judah knows it can be a solution to their situation. Once Joseph hears all the questions he asked and the answers of his brothers, there’s a possibility that his mind will be refreshed. Second, Judah knows it will help Joseph regulate his emotions, for he told Joseph to control his anger (v.18).

3. He told Joseph the conversation he had with his father Jacob (vv.24–32) – In chapter 43:27, Joseph asked his brothers, “Is your father well, the old man of whom you spoke? Is he still alive?” This time, Judah shared with Joseph the conversation he had with his father, how he was convinced to let Benjamin go with them, and how he offered himself for the safety of Benjamin (Gen. 43:8–10). Here, Joseph saw the genuine transformation of Judah, showing compassion for his father and brother, willing to exchange places, and not wanting to add pain to Jacob.

Now, how did Joseph reveal himself to his brothers?

1. He told his brothers “I am Joseph” twice (45:3–4) – First, he said, “I am Joseph; does my father still live?” Since the last part of Judah’s storytelling was about Jacob, which caused Joseph to cry, the first thing he did after revealing himself was to ask about his father. The moment he saw his brothers again after a long time, he didn’t request them to bring Jacob immediately. He sought to reunite with them and took the lead in changing them through some tests. This time, he wanted his father to complete his family. Second, he said, “I am Joseph your brother, whom you sold into Egypt.” Why did he mention it? Two reasons: so his brothers could put aside any doubts, and to let them know that he was truly Joseph.

2. Not only did he reveal himself, but also the plan of God (vv.5–8) – Three times Joseph told his brothers the purpose of God. First, he was sent by God to preserve life. Probably for two years, the famine was getting worse and there were still another five years to go, so for the nation of Israel to survive, Joseph was the answer. Second, he was sent by God to preserve posterity, so that the covenant of God to Abraham would continue (Gen. 17:1–8). Third, he was sent by God to be a father to Pharaoh, lord and ruler throughout all the land of Egypt. Because of that, Joseph had control over the distribution of food not only for the Egyptians, but for his family as well.

The most joyful and emotional part of our Torah portion is when Joseph fell and wept on Benjamin’s neck and when he wept and kissed all his brothers. Notice in verse 15 it says that his brothers talked with him. Some commentators said that Joseph’s brothers did not ask forgiveness. The Hebrew word for “talk” is dabar, which means “to speak, declare, to promise.” Most probably, the brothers of Joseph declared their fault, made a promise to change for the better, and asked for forgiveness.

It was so nice to see that the twelve tribes were together again. This time, they were not only a family, but a united nation and worthy to be called the chosen people of God.

God did not spare your life just for you to exist — He spared you so others might live through your obedience.

God preserved Joseph’s life so he could preserve others. How has God preserved your life? And are you using that life for His purposes?

“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” (Genesis 50:20)

-- H A F T A R A H P O R T I O N --

Our Haftarah deals with how Caleb inherits the land of Hebron. First, because of the good report that he gave as one of the spies that Moshe sent to scout the land of Canaan. He compared himself with the other spies, for they melted the hearts of the people because of their bad report. But Caleb gave a report that came from his heart, for he wholly followed Adonai YHVH.

Second, Caleb inherits the land of Hebron because Moshe fulfilled his word to him. For Moshe swore on that day that wherever his foot had trodden, that would be his inheritance and his children’s as well. Adonai YHVH, through Moshe, granted the desire of Caleb’s heart.

Aside from the blessing of inheritance, Caleb still received more blessings:

1. Adonai kept him alive (v.10) – He was forty-five years old when Adonai spoke to Moshe in the wilderness, but now he was eighty-five years old.

2. His strength did not change (vv.11–12) – Because Caleb’s strength had not diminished, he was still able to go to war, and he wanted to drive out the Anakim, for he knew Adonai YHVH would be with him.

The Haftarah chosen for this parashah by the Sages is linked by the fact that Caleb refers to the sending of spies to assess the Land. Likewise, Joseph had charged his brothers with being spies, though he surely knew they were not. Yet this scheme of his brought about his desired end: Jacob and his entire family came to Egypt to be protected from the famine. Likewise, Caleb’s age is given as 85, yet he confesses that he was just as strong at 85 as he was at 45, when Moshe first sent him with the other spies to assess the Land. Jacob’s age in Genesis 47:9 is given as 130, highlighting the fact that God had also given him strength in his old age.

As Tim Hegg points out, the plan of God is worked out in every detail: the descendants of Abraham, endowed with the promise of God’s covenant, descend to Egypt to preserve life, but ultimately to be enslaved and eventually to be brought forth by the mighty hand of God in the exodus. Indeed, the exodus will become the primary example of God’s way of redemption, transforming the multiple tribes of Jacob into a single nation marked by God’s redemptive power.

Every breath you still have is a testimony that God is not finished with you — rise up and take the land He has promised.

If God has given you years and strength, how will you use them—to chase personal goals, or to take hold of His promises?

“Even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.” (Isaiah 46:4)

-- APOSTOLIC P O R T I O N --

In our Apostolic portion, Yeshua joined two men on the road to Emmaus. They were discussing all that had happened in Jerusalem, yet they failed to recognize that the One walking beside them was the risen Messiah. Why?

1. They were gripped by sadness (v.17) – Yeshua had offered Himself as the Paschal Lamb for our sins. His death should have been the greatest reason for joy — the Lamb slain so that we might live. Yet, instead of rejoicing in the fulfillment of redemption, they were overcome with disappointment and despair. Sadness can often cloud our spiritual sight.

2. Their focus was misplaced (v.20) – Their attention was fixed on what the chief priests and rulers had done to Yeshua: delivering Him to death. They saw the tragedy but missed the triumph. They should have remembered the prophecy that Messiah must suffer — that “by His stripes we are healed” (Isa. 53:5–6). The very events they saw as defeat were, in truth, the victory God had promised.

3. Their faith in the resurrection was partial (vv.22–24) – Though the women from their group had testified to the empty tomb, and others confirmed it, these two still wavered. They knew the reports but did not let them reshape their hearts. And so, Yeshua — in perfect patience — began with Moshe and the Prophets, expounding from all the Scriptures (Tanakh) the things concerning Himself. Here, we see the risen Messiah as the ultimate Teacher, leading them step by step from confusion to clarity, from doubt to conviction.

Yeshua did not wait for them to ask; He took the initiative, guided the conversation and anchored their understanding in the written Word. This is a reminder that true discipleship begins when the Scriptures open our eyes to Messiah and we respond in faith. The risen Messiah brings hope and life to those who see Him in the Scriptures.

You can walk beside the risen Messiah and still miss Him — but if your eyes are opened, you will never be the same.

If Yeshua joined you on your journey today, would you recognize Him? Would your heart burn to such a point that you can’t help but share Him with others?

“I am the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.” (Revelation 1:18)

The connection of our parasha is about being alive for God’s purpose. In the Torah, Joseph is still alive and finally revealed himself to his brothers, for God would use him to preserve life. In the Haftarah, Caleb inherits the land of Hebron and testified that the reason he still lived and was strong was because of God. In the Apostolic portion, some women arrived at Yeshua’s tomb and did not find His body, for He was alive.

Back to my introduction… Joseph’s brothers did not recognize him until he revealed himself to them. Very soon, Yeshua will come back and reveal Himself too. Will you recognize Him?

God did not keep you alive so you could drift through life — He preserved you so you could fulfill His plan, bear His Name, and bring His life to others.

You are alive for such a time as this — will you spend your life on His purpose, or let it slip away unused?

Revelation 1:7

“Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of Him. Even so. Amein.”

Romans 14:8 – “For if we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord; so then, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.”

Matthew 24:44

“Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

Shabbat Shalom,

Topher

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-- S O U R C E S --

Abraham.lib.virginia.edu

Aish.com

Blueletterbible.org

Biblewise.com

Bibleblender.com

Myjewishlearning.com

shema.com

The MacArthur Study Bible

torahresource.com

Parasha 41 : Treasures of the Heart

 

A House Reunited: The Road to Restoration

-- T O R A H   P O R T I O N --

Introduction:

When life tests what’s hidden in your heart—what will be revealed as your greatest treasure?

Last Shabbat, Joseph challenged his brothers in two ways: he kept one of them in Egypt as a prisoner and demanded they bring Benjamin to him so their words would be verified. The brothers felt guilty, and Reuben, being the eldest, reminded them of their past sins. Upon hearing their remorse, Joseph turned away from them and wept.

They returned to Canaan and told their father Jacob everything. They urged him to allow Benjamin to go with them back to Egypt, but he refused. Reuben offered his two sons in exchange for Benjamin, but it didn’t convince Jacob. Then Judah stepped forward and offered himself in Benjamin’s place. He told Jacob he was willing to bear the blame forever if he failed to bring Benjamin back.

Our Torah portion begins with Joseph's steward bringing the brothers into Joseph’s house, giving them water, and feeding their donkeys. When Joseph saw his brothers again, he asked about their father’s well-being. They replied that he was still alive and in good health. Then Joseph saw Benjamin and was moved to tears.

“Then Joseph looked at his brother Benjamin, the son of his own mother. ‘Is this your youngest brother, the one you told me about?’ Joseph asked. ‘May God be gracious to you, my son.’ Joseph hurried out, deeply moved at the sight of his brother, and went into his private room to weep. After washing his face, he came out and, controlling himself, said, ‘Serve the food.’” (Gen. 43:29–31)

But even though he was moved to tears, Joseph still did not reveal himself to them.

Earlier, in verse 28, it says:

“And they answered, ‘Your servant our father is in good health; he is still alive.’ And they bowed their heads down and prostrated themselves.”

This moment fulfills Joseph’s earlier dream in Genesis 37:8–9, when his brothers mocked him and said, “Do you actually think you will reign over us?” Yet Joseph dreamed that the sun, moon, and eleven stars bowed before him.

God was working behind the scenes to fulfill His wonderful plan for Joseph and his family. He used everything—the envy of his brothers, Potiphar and his wife, the dreams of the cupbearer, the baker, Pharaoh, the famine, and even the silver cup—as instruments to accomplish His purpose. It’s clear that God was guiding Joseph, even in testing his brothers.

Before the final test, they ate together. The seating arrangement amazed the brothers, as it was done according to their birth order—an obvious sign that something unusual was happening.

The Final Test

“Then he commanded the steward of his house, saying, ‘Fill the men’s sacks with food, as much as they can carry, and put each man’s money in the mouth of his sack. Also put my cup, the silver cup, in the mouth of the sack of the youngest, and his grain money.’ So he did according to the word that Joseph had spoken.” (Gen. 44:1–2)

Joseph instructed his steward to fill the brothers’ sacks with food and money. But for Benjamin, he added a special item—his silver cup. This cup served as a decoy to test his brothers.

Why a silver cup? In Genesis 37:28, Joseph had been sold by his brothers for twenty shekels of silver. Now, he used a silver cup as a symbol to remind them of that betrayal. It was placed in Benjamin’s sack to see if the brothers would defend Benjamin—something they hadn’t done for Joseph.

Perhaps Joseph suspected that Benjamin, being the new favorite son in his absence, might face the same rejection. This test would reveal whether the brothers had truly changed.

The Response of the Brothers

When Joseph’s steward accused them of theft, the brothers protested:

“Far be it from your servants to do such a thing! We even brought back from the land of Canaan the money we found in our sacks.”

This response showed they were no longer the same men they once were.

The steward searched the sacks from oldest to youngest, and the cup was found in Benjamin’s. At this, the brothers tore their clothes in grief, knowing what this would mean for Benjamin—and for their father Jacob.

“Then each man quickly lowered his sack to the ground and opened it. So he searched, beginning with the oldest and ending with the youngest. And the cup was found in Benjamin’s sack. Then they tore their clothes, loaded their donkeys, and returned to the city.” (Gen. 44:11–13)

Joseph saw that his brothers had grown. The question for us is this: when the cup is found in our sack—when trials come—do we, and others, see spiritual growth and maturity in us?

Judah Speaks

Here comes Judah—a foreshadow of Messiah Yeshua—who offers himself for the safety of Benjamin. He appeals to Adonai YHVH, showing that he is a changed man. Judah had lost two sons (Er and Onan), so he understood the pain of a grieving father. Now he intercedes for his brother, having made a vow to bring him back safely.

Judah’s transformation is evident. He had once left his family to find a wife. Now, he stands up for his family and is willing to face his guilt from the past.

Likewise, Joseph’s life prophetically mirrors the Messiah—Messiah ben Yosef—who would be betrayed, sold, and seemingly lost, only to rise in glory, rule in power, offer life, and extend forgiveness.

Joseph saw his family as his greatest treasure. Though second in command of Egypt, he used his position not for gain, but to fulfill God’s will and redeem his family. His first step was forgiveness.

Redemption doesn’t begin with a clean record—it begins with a changed heart.

When you are falsely accused, overlooked, or misunderstood—like Joseph or Benjamin—do you respond with trust in God’s plan or with bitterness?

God doesn’t test us to watch us fail—He tests us to reveal the faith we forgot we had.

-- H A F T A R A H P O R T I O N --

In Haftarah, the people of Judah approached prophet Jeremiah concerning their petition to go to Egypt. The question is, why would they want to go there? In Chapter 41:11-18, the people of Judah fought against Ishmael the son of Nethaniah, but sadly, he escaped from them together with his eight men. Upon hearing that Ishmael the son of Nethaniah murdered Gedaliah the son of Ahikam, the people of Judah departed and dwelt in the habitation of Chimham, near Bethlehem, as they went on their way to Egypt, because of the Chaldeans, for they were afraid of them, because of the murder of Gedaliah the son of Ahikam, whom the king of Babylon had made governor in the land.

So prophet Jeremiah prayed for the petition of the people of Judah to go back to Egypt. But after ten days, Adonai YHVH answered and came to Jeremiah. He told them the following:

• If they will stay in the land, Adonai will build and not pull them down.
• They don’t need to be afraid of the King of Babylon.
• He is with them, to save them, and deliver them from the King’s hand.
• He will be merciful to them.
• He will cause them to return to their own land.

“Egypt looked more appealing than the burned cities of Israel.”

What a vivid picture of walking by sight instead of faith. Egypt had horses, armies, and walls. Israel had ashes, ruins, and no defenses. But Israel still had God’s presence and promise.

This shows us:

Faith must trust God’s Word more than visible security.

Their choice is relatable today: Will I trust God in the ruins of my circumstances? Or will I run to the “Egypts” of my life—places of comfort and control that God has called me out of?

The Israelites had previously experienced being slaves in Egypt and God had freed them through Moshe. That is why God did not want them to return to this place because God wanted Israel to rely on Him and not on anyone or anything else.

God doesn’t just ask for obedience—He reveals whether our trust is real by asking us to obey when it’s hardest.

When God tells me something I don’t want to hear, do I submit—or search for a second opinion that fits my desire?

-- APOSTOLIC P O R T I O N --

Our Apostolic portion has three parts: Verses 19-21 deals with the importance of preserving treasures in heaven not on earth. Earthly treasures means wealth or materials which can be destroyed and can’t bring it when a person dies. Psalm 49:17 says “For when he dies he shall carry nothing away”. The heavenly treasures are the treasures that last and can’t be taken.

Verses 22-23 deals with the eye. Yeshua said if our eyes are good, our whole bodies will be full of light. The message is very clear, if we focus our eyes to the instructions (Torah) of Yeshua, then it will lead us to the right path. Psalm 119:105 says “Your Torah is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

Verse 24 is about decision making of who our focus will be. If we focus on worldly things, we will be in darkness. But if we focus on living in Yeshua’s Torah, we will live in the light and worship Him.

“Joseph stands before us as a supreme example of one who treasured the ways of God over the grasping of power and wealth... Perhaps there is no greater treasure than purity of heart.”— Tim Hegg, TorahResource

Joseph did not treasure his position, power, or possessions. His true treasure was obedience to God, a pure heart, and the restoration of his family.

He had every opportunity to live for himself but chose instead to serve others and to forgive. His priorities were kingdom-centered, not self-centered. Like Yeshua taught:

“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matt. 6:21)

The heart will always chase what it treasures most—so choose your treasure wisely.

Where is your time, energy, and devotion going? What does that reveal about your true treasure?

You can have everything the world offers and still be empty—but if you have a clear conscience before God, you have everything you need.

Yeshua teaches that the heart always follows its treasure.

This parasha teaches us about the true treasure within. In the Torah, Joseph hides his identity but reveals his heart—he longs to forgive and restore. In the Haftarah, Judah’s people are afraid and hypocritical, wanting to return to Egypt. In the Apostolic writings, Yeshua urges us to store treasure in heaven, not on earth.

Many people count wealth, memories, or health as their greatest treasures. But Joseph, though powerful, didn't focus on what he had. He used his blessings to fulfill God’s plan, save his family, and transform his brothers. His true treasure was his relationship with God, his obedience, and his family.

Every test, every fear, and every choice reveals what we value most. The question is no longer what’s in your sack—but what’s in your heart. Will your treasure last into eternity?

So we stand today, like Joseph’s brothers, like Judah, like the remnant in Jeremiah’s day—faced with decisions that test the direction of our hearts.

Will we choose self-preservation or sacrificial love?
Will we run back to Egypt, or remain where God has called us, even when it looks desolate?
Will we serve the Master of Light, or chase fleeting treasures that fade?

Let us not just pass the test—but let us treasure the One who gave us the test,
and follow Him—into truth, into trust, and into eternity.

Shabbat Shalom,

Topher

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-- S O U R C E S --

eztorah.com

rafalreyzer.com

jw.org

jtsa.edu

passiton.com

The MacArthur Study Bible

torahresource.com