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Day Five: Forgetting Our Priorities

And Joseph died, all his brothers, and all that generation. But the children of Israel were fruitful and increased abundantly, multiplied and grew exceedingly mighty; and the land was filled with them. Now there arose a new king over Egypt, who did not know Joseph. Exodus 1:6-8

Initially, the children of Israel go to Egypt as a safe haven. The Pharaoh cares for the children of Israel out of his love for their brother Joseph. However, as time passed, and a new pharaoh, who did not know Joseph, came into power, the environment in which the children of Israel lived drastically changed. They were no longer cared for and respected; instead they were enslaved and put to work.

Something similar can happen in our own lives when we have a clear vision and set out to bring it into reality. For example, a teacher plans an elaborate project for her class. She has every detail organized and has everyone ready to work when two of the students argue and destroy a part of the project, making it impossible to complete. Quickly the teacher forgets why she spent the energy to put together such an activity for her class. Similarly, picture a family or couple making it a priority to get a weekend away at the beach or in the mountains. The point of the trip is to reconnect, spend quality time together, build healthy relationships, etc. However, before they even arrive at the new destination they are arguing over how to get there, where to eat, and disagreeing about how the car was packed. Wait a minute! What was the point of the trip?

The Writings for the New Church say that Joseph represents a relationship of love with the Lord. When this is lost, when a pharaoh who does not know Joseph comes to rule in us, our decisions, plans, choices, and tasks lose meaning. As we move forward in bringing our hopes and dreams to fruition and acting on our ideals, we need to keep the Lord and our personal relationship with Him in the forefront of our minds. We need to stay focused on the love and caring that led us to begin to act in the first place.

Reflection
Is there an area of your life in which you currently feel stuck? Write a prayer, asking the Lord for help when you feel stuck in this way.

Download this Reflection in printable form. (PDF)

Discussion Board
Share your thoughts on today's Journey in the discussion board.

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