This Sunday, we will consider a character in Genesis destined for greatness. Joseph has everything going for him: a doting father, a colorful wardrobe, and most importantly the promise of kingship. 

This throne, however, isn't one to which Joseph will ascend, but descend. His rise to power will come through a circuitous, downward path. His brothers sell him into slavery. He is lied about, imprisoned, abused. Amidst the whole ordeal we're meant to see that God isn't working in spite of the obstacles, but through them. 

Martin Luther developed what he called "a theology of the cross." This theology came not only through his reading of Scripture, but also his observations as a pastor. God meets people most powerfully not in the "highs" but in the "lows." It is precisely in our suffering, in our pain, that God enters in—using it all to bring about our salvation. To prepare us for our calling to rule creation as his vice-regents.

Joseph's story is our story. We are meant to rule with Christ, and the path of the kingdom is the way of the cross. Coronation comes through crucifixion. Join us this Sunday as we orient ourselves to this upside-down Kingdom of Jesus.