In Genesis 46, Jacob receives a message from God in a vision at Beersheba. God reassures him not to be afraid to go down to Egypt, as it is there that God will make his descendants into a great nation. This message is crucial, as Jacob is preparing to reunite with his long-lost son, Joseph, whom he believed to be dead. Jacob sets out for Egypt with his entire family, along with their livestock and possessions. The chapter provides a detailed list of Jacob's descendants who accompany him on this journey, totaling seventy souls. Among them are his sons, daughters, and grandchildren, all his offspring being involved.
Upon reaching Egypt, Joseph prepares for his family's arrival and goes out to meet his father, Jacob, in the region of Goshen. The emotional reunion between father and son is deeply moving, and they weep tears of joy as they embrace together. Joseph introduces his family to Pharaoh, and they receive favor in the land of Egypt. Pharaoh generously grants them the best of the land of Goshen, where they can settle and prosper. Joseph provides for his family, ensuring they have more than enough to sustain themselves during the ongoing severe famine. Reuben said, “You are alive! I must go and see you before I die.”
Genesis 46 highlights the fulfillment of God's promise to Jacob. It also demonstrates the powerful themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the power and true sovereignty of God in His people’s lives. We need to be called to forgive ourselves and others if we don’t follow God’s Word.