A Leadership Reflection from Genesis 48
In Genesis 48, we encounter a quiet but surprising leadership moment.
Jacob—elderly, weakened, and nearing the end of his life—is brought Joseph’s two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, so that he can bless them. Joseph arranges the scene carefully, according to custom. Manasseh, the firstborn, is placed at Jacob’s right hand. Ephraim, the younger brother, stands at his left.
Everything is in the proper order.
But when Jacob reaches out to bless them, he crosses his hands.
Joseph immediately objects. This is not how things are supposed to work. The right hand belongs on the firstborn. Surely his father has made a mistake.
Jacob responds calmly and with confidence:
“I know, my son. I know.” (Genesis 48:19)
This was not confusion.
It was discernment.
