Reflection on the Gospel – Wednesday, July 9, 2025

julio 9, 2025

Dear friend,

We take an important step in the sequence of Genesis we are following, and I will give you some context to understand the readings. Joseph’s brothers, out of jealousy because he was Jacob’s favorite, sold him to some merchants on their way to Egypt. There, Joseph went from being a slave and prisoner to becoming, thanks to his ability to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams, a very important figure at court, serving as the kingdom’s administrator and prime minister.

Today’s reading connects with this story. Joseph’s intelligence and foresight make him a key figure during a severe drought affecting Egypt and neighboring regions. This causes his brothers to come to Egypt to look for food for their families. Joseph, without revealing who he is, tests his brothers by asking them to bring Benjamin, the youngest, whom he loves specially because they share the same mother, Rachel.

Let’s remember the irony of the situation: years ago, his brothers despised him partly because he had shared a dream where they bowed down to him. Now, in an unexpected turn, they find themselves bowed before him as a powerful man at court, though they still don’t know who he is. What did Joseph do? Did he take revenge on them? We will see later.

The Gospel shows us the choosing of the twelve apostles. Some will betray Him later. What did the Lord do? Did He take revenge on them?

“Revenge is a dish best served cold,” some say. Is it worth serving it? Does taking revenge give deep and lasting satisfaction? Don’t let yourself be carried away by revenge. As one verse from Psalm 32 we recite today says: “The eyes of the Lord are on those who are faithful, on those who hope in His mercy.”

Let us allow the Holy Spirit to act in us, letting us see not only with our physical eyes but also with the eyes of the heart, open to the beauty and truth of God’s creation, where revenge, so present in our world, has no place.

Your brother in faith,

Juan Lozano, C.M.F.