Joseph #56: The End of Joseph's Life

Following the death of his father, Joseph lived another 54 years. Most likely, he continued to serve as Prime Minister of Egypt while enjoying his children, and especially his grandchildren. Then, the Lord gives him a mercy: he knows he's about to die. For the second chapter in a row, there is a deathbed scene. The children of Israel gather around Joseph as he delivers his final instructions and admonitions.

Although he only lived in Canaan for 17 years, and his ancestors were shepherds while he was a ruler in Egypt, he has not forgotten his heritage. He remembers the Lord and his promises. Consequently, he reminds his family that "God will surely visit you, and bring you out of this land" and binds them in oath to take his bones and bury them in Canaan when they are finally delivered from Egypt.

In Hebrews 11, the "Faith Hall of Fame" chapter, the writer mentions Joseph. We might think that his trials with his brothers, resisting Potiphar's wife, or saving his people from the famine would be why he is remembered. But it is this profession of faith on his deathbed.

The story of Joseph and the book of Genesis seemingly ends on an anticlimactic note: "he was put in a coffin." It is on purpose. The focus is on the future, not on the past. It is the hope of the gospel, the coming deliverance. When Joseph prophesies, "God will surely visit you," the ultimate fulfillment is in Jesus Christ. Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, echoes Joseph's words, "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people."