Then Reuben said to his father, “You may kill my two sons if I don’t bring Benjamin back to you. I’ll be responsible for him, and I promise to bring him back.” [Genesis 42.37]
I [Judah] personally guarantee his safety. You may hold me responsible if I don’t bring him back to you. Then let me bear the blame forever. [Genesis 43.9]
See the difference between Reuben's and Judah's guarantee regarding Benjamin's safe return to Jacob? Reuben and Judah both guaranteed Benjamin's safe return, but while Reuben included his two sons in the deal, Judah took full responsibility himself. Reuben's responsibility lasted until Benjamin returned safe or his two sons were dead. Judah took personal responsibility (if Benjamin did not return) upon himself forever.
Don't get me wrong, if Reuben killed his two sons, that would have been a tragedy - but in some strange way, justice would be served and life would go on... However for Judah, his punishment would have been for the rest of his life.
Personal responsibility is a big issue. "I" am responsible. What a lesson today from the OYB!
Father, It is no surprise to me after a certain discussion last night about personal responsibility that today's OYB reading contains confirmation of just that. (How do You do that?) Please help me (and all of us) to take full responsibility in this life - period.
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