Introduction

Mercy. Mercy. Mercy. Joseph lives it in Egypt. Jesus preaches it in the gospel. The Spirit guides us into merciful lives with the power of forgiveness to reconcile what is fractured and divided. Such merciful living is the baptismal blessing of having put on Christ. It is the gift of the life-giving Spirit. It is a reflection of God’s glory revealed in Christ.

Readings and Psalm

• Genesis 45:3-11, 15
  Joseph forgives his brothers
• Psalm 37:1-11, 39-40
  The lowly shall possess the land; they will delight in abundance of peace. (Ps. 37:11)
• 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50
  The mystery of the resurrection of the body
• Luke 6:27-38
  Love your enemies

Overview

The promise and its fulfillment may not look at all alike, even though they are intimately connected. Paul speaks about seeds and plants as he tries to picture resurrection life. Joseph’s brothers never thought they would see him alive again, so how shocking he must have appeared to them as an Egyptian leader! Jesus invites us to sow seeds of new life by loving enemies.