Reuben Can’t Persuade

The strange unfolding of developments from the ten brother’s journey is too much for Jacob. He is running scared. He senses the forces that are aligning to deprive him of the last vestige of his beloved wife. He won’t let Benjamin go.

In the midst of this, Reuben shows himself to be the failed leader. He knows what must obviously happen. They must return.  But he’s tone deaf, he offers to allow the killing of his own sons if he fails to return with Benjamin. Reuben imagines himself to be like Abraham, but he alone sees things this way.

It’s a stupid offer that serves no one.  Little more than a verbal warranty from a used car salesman, Jacob doesn’t take him seriously. He won’t entrust Benjamin to him.

Power from integrity. Reuben lacks self-control. Because he would say anything, he isn’t heard.

“Do not be quick with your mouth…God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.”