How We Wander Home
How We Wander Home
“And a man found him wandering in the fields. And the man asked him, ‘What are you seeking?’”
Why does the story include this moment in the story of Joseph? Two ideas come to mind. The first is that we are like Joseph in this moment. Lost, wandering, and in need of direction.
This is true. We have been created, born into the world, by nature sinful and without God (Eph 2:12). Although we bear the image of God and are his unique creatures, we wander in unbelief, without faith to trust God as we ought. Therefore, we do not worship him nor obey him. We saw this on Sunday when we looked at Cain and Abel. Cain went east of Eden to the land of Nod (wandering) when he would not sacrifice to God in faith, like his brother Abel, but in unbelief (Hebrews 11:4).
What a blessing that the Word of God comes to us and gives us faith to believe God. His Word directs us to the family of God.
We must be careful with this interpretation of Joseph's story not to over-interpret ourselves as the central figure. Joseph is a foreshadowing figure of Jesus who would be sent by his Father not to check on his children but to save his children. Joseph ultimately becomes the savior of God's chosen family when exalted in Egypt. Jesus is the savior who has come to rescue those the Father calls. Joseph's brothers were "lost" and "wandering" in heart, even though their occupation would have them wander in fields to graze their sheep.
Many people have lives that appear well put together, organized by the rhythms of education, recreation, occupation, vacation, family, retirement, etc. They do not appear to be "wandering." However, their hearts have only ever known the wilderness. They wander far from the home for which God made them.
If you met Jesus in the fields and asked him, "What are you seeking?" He would reply, "I am seeking my brothers." Jesus has come to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). Hebrews 4 speaks of those who will enter God's rest by faith. The author admonishes his readers, quoting Psalm 95:7,8, "Today if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts."
How have you experienced the sense of wandering?
Could you describe your life before Jesus found you? How has he given you a sense of belonging, purpose, or meaning?
How might these words from Genesis 37:15 encourage you to share the gospel?
Read Hebrews 3:19-4:13
What role do the Scriptures play in bringing a wandering heart home to God?
- Loren