So they went up to the steward of Joseph’s house and spoke with him at the door of the house, and said, “Oh, my lord, we came down the first time to buy food. And when we came to the lodging place we opened our sacks, and there was each man’s money in the mouth of his sack, our money in full weight. So we have brought it again with us, and we have brought other money down with us to buy food. We do not know who put our money in our sacks.” He replied, “Peace to you, do not be afraid. Your God and the God of your father has put treasure in your sacks for you. I received your money.” Then he brought Simeon out to them. And when the man had brought the men into Joseph’s house and given them water, and they had washed their feet, and when he had given their donkeys fodder, they prepared the present for Joseph’s coming at noon, for they heard that they should eat bread there.
When Joseph came home, they brought into the house to him the present that they had with them and bowed down to him to the ground. And he inquired about their welfare and said, “Is your father well, the old man of whom you spoke? Is he still alive?” They said, “Your servant our father is well; he is still alive.” And they bowed their heads and prostrated themselves.
Comment: Joseph is not present for the first part of this conversation. The sons of Israel (Jacob’s other name) are talking to Joseph’s steward, who obviously knows a lot about them. Their words tumble out as they try to explain all about the money issues and obviously they are hiding their fears behind their words! But the steward brings their God into the conversation‘. This is surprising unless he had accepted Joseph’s God as his own. Jehovah was not an Egyptian Deity! He brushes over the money, brings out Simeon, presumably from at least house detention, if not prison; washed their feet, or had some underling do it; and when Joseph arrived home, presented them. There is obviously some awkwardness and stiffness at first but the greetings are formal and polite!
Prayer: Help me to seek wisdom from you when I am out of my depth Father God.
As I read it! 