In chapter 45, Joseph has mercy on his brothers. He reveals to them that the plan had been God’s the whole time. Joseph is so relieved to finally tell his brothers the truth, he cries. He cries so loud that the whole house heard him, even after Joseph tells his Egyptian servants to leave him. Even Pharaoh’s house heard him cry.
Joseph makes it plain that it was all a part of God’s plan that he ended up in Egypt. In Genesis 45:8 he says,
“Now, therefore, it was not you who sent me here, but God; and He has made me a father to Pharaoh and lord of all his household and ruler over all the land of Egypt.”
After this, Joseph wants his brothers to go and bring his father to Egypt. His desire is for all of his family to live in Goshen. Joseph weeps with his brothers, Benjamin first. This is a beautiful family reunion.
Next, we find Pharaoh hearing the news. Both he and his servants were pleased. There was confirmation that God was in Joseph’s desire because Pharaoh also wanted Joseph to bring his family to Egypt. Pharaoh instructs Joseph what to tell his brothers in verses 17-20. So, his brothers go and tell Jacob. When they left, Joseph gave them wagons loaded with provisions for the journey. He also gave them garments, but he also gives silver to Benjamin.
It is interesting to note how he tells them not to quarrel. I think he did this because, one, he wanted them to stay in the spirit they were in before they left. He seems to be implanting a thought in their minds to stay peaceful. Secondly, I also see how he may have thought that since he gave Benjamin more than they had received they may get jealous. Joseph is being proactive in the spiritual warfare battle.
So, when the brothers arrived to tell Jacob, his spirit was revived. At first, he did not believe them; but, once they told him everything that Joseph said and showed him the wagons, he was ready to go. He wanted to see Joseph before he died (Genesis 45:28)
Then Israel said, "It is enough; my son Joseph is still alive. I will go and see him before I die."
