So Potiphar left everything he had in Joseph’s care; with Joseph in charge, he did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate...So the warden put Joseph in charge of all those held in the prison, and he was made responsible for all that was done there. - Genesis 39:6, 22
When it comes to witnessing, the image of knocking on strangers' doors and looking for ways to broach Jesus in everyday conversation comes to mind. I have to admit that neither image feels very natural or inviting to me. I rather like the advice of St. Francis of Assissi: "Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary, use words."
Joseph gives us a picture of what that looks like. He committed to living for God and His ways. Whether he was at Potiphar's house or in jail, the top men knew they could trust him. There was the incident with Potiphar's wife, but if Potiphar really believed her, why did he send Joseph to the light security King's prison rather than the commoner's jail or even giving him the death sentence?
The truth is, Joseph's faith and commitment to God showed all the way through. This commitment was a greater witness than any theological argument he could've made. Anyone can talk and make a well thought out or impassioned argument. But why should anyone else live it if we who profess it don't?
Father God we want our walk to match our talk today. Help us to show others what a life with You looks like rather than simply telling them about it. We want to represent You well so that people will not think less of You because of us. An when we fall short, help us to be strong enough to admit it and to ask for forgiveness. Amen.
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