Reading: Matthew 8:14-22, Acts 11:19-30, Psalm 19, Genesis 42-43

Recall:
Then he looked up and saw his brother Benjamin, his mother’s son, and said, “Is this your youngest brother, of whom you spoke to me? God be gracious to you, my son!” With that, Joseph hurried out, because he was overcome with affection for his brother, and he was about to weep. So he went into a private room and wept there. Then he washed his face and came out; and controlling himself he said, “Serve the meal.” Exodus 14:29-31

Reflect:
Out of all the reading, this is the image that stuck out to me. Joseph having to leave the room to cry. It's comforting. Even Joseph, easily one of the coolest Hebrew Scripture characters, had to break down and cry. And it's also interesting and, possibly, instructive. He left the room to cry. Did he do it to keep up the charade? Did he to do it so that he could maintain his solid-faced aura of leadership in front of the brothers and his own people?

When leading, I imagine there are times to show emotion, admit questions and uncertainty. That is the example of scripture and that has been the experience of leaders throughout history.

Respond:
I feel that what my situation requires at this point is the strong, positive, unwavering, dry-eyed, leader. My tears, my questioning, my uncertainties--and they come often need to be in private or with a close circle.