While in exile, Jacob prospered,
returning to the land of his birth with a large family and great wealth. But once
again, there was famine in the land, so severe that no food was available at any
price. Jacob and his sons, who had themselves become fathers of large families by
now, turn to ever-reliable Egypt for food supplies. The masterfully told and
familiar story of Joseph prepares us for the fact that the prime minister of Egypt at this
time is none other than Jacob's long lost son.
In this final panel we see all twelve
of Joseph's brothers, the smiles on their faces a reaction, no doubt, of a highly
satisfactory reconciliation. Joseph, high lord of Egypt, embraces a rejuvenated
Jacob.
The story of the ancestors begins
with two and ends with almost more than space will permit. One of the two promises
is well on the way to being realized.