Miketz (Genesis 41:1-44:17) The Gift Of Planning Ahead!

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Ah, Joseph. What a fascinating study he is! This week we get a glimpse into the variety of Joseph’s life, from prisoner to head of the Egyptian economy and the first reunion with his brothers. Again we will meet the themes of dream interpretation, family dynamics and deception and power. There are interesting challenges in the portion as well as we see two names for God, Elohim and El Shadai, as well as the reference to Joseph (and later his brothers) as “ivri” or Hebrew (41:12 and 43:32). There is so much to consider in this portion. For example, the assimilation of Joseph into Egyptian society and the question of how deep was this assimilation? Likewise the scene with his brothers who come to Egypt for food as a result of the famine and bow down to Joseph, this fulfilling Joseph’s prophecy.
One other, among many, theme is outlined in the portion. One that I suggest has direct relationship to us and our families. Joseph is elevated to power because he correctly predicted the famine and created the plan that allowed Egypt to avert the disaster. He planned for the eventuality of famine. The idea of planning for an eventual future speaks to us as so many of us in our generation now face the need to plan for our own mortality.
How may of us have had or begun to plan for our own future death? I know that this is not a popular subject, but, taking a lesson from Joseph, the ability to make our wishes known while we still are able to do so is a gift we can give our loved ones. Advance planning around end of life issues, medical directives, health care proxy forms and powers of attorney all are vital acts, modern mitzvoth, if your wish, that can bring comfort to our family.
This is a season where many families will come together to celebrate holidays. Consider it a time to begin these conversations with family members but first, have that conversation with your self. What are your wishes? Make them known. Let the people you care for and who acre for you know them. It is a blessing to be able to do this.

Shabbat shalom
Rabbi Richard F Address

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