The Bible to be used for the Honorable Barack Obama's swearing in as the 44th President of the United States of America -- the Bible Abraham Lincoln used to take the oath of office.
"Then he sent his brothers away, and as they were leaving he said to them, 'Don't quarrel on the way!'" [Genesis 45:24]
Joseph has revealed himself to his brothers in dramatic fashion. He's sent them home to tell their father that his son he thought dead is alive and rules in Egypt. He presents them gifts and the promise of lands in Goshen when they return to Egypt. He has been reunited with his family after so many years. And what does he say, what are his final words as they ride out of view:
"Give father my love?"
"Brothers, it's been so good to see you. I long for your return?"
"Hey, about selling me into slavery. Don't worry about it. It's all good?"
No. No. And, No.
"Don't quarrel on the way!"
That's it. What do they talk about on the way home to their father? How easy it would be for Joseph to take his revenge on them? Are they amazed at their good fortune and the turn of events? Or do they ride in silence thinking about the past? Did they argue long ago in front of Joseph while he was in the pit, trying to decide whether to kill or sell him and are they reminded of that now? Was that the purpose of his odd choice of words?
I wonder.
Today we inaugurate the 44th President of the United States of America. As he places his hand on the Lincoln Bible to swear in, let's all say a prayer for him and for our country. And as we travel together from this day..."let's not quarrel along the way!"
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