The Second Journey to Egypt

Inspired by Genesis 43 - The Second Journey to Egypt

[Intro]

[Verse 1] The famine was still heavy, the last of the grain was gone, Their father said, "Go back again, buy food from dusk till dawn." But Judah spoke the truth aloud, "The man warned us severely, 'You will not see my face again, unless your brother is near me!'" Israel asked, "Why did you bring this trouble on my head? By telling him you had another son, you filled my heart with dread!"

[Chorus] Down to the River Nile, the caravan must go, Only faith and sacrifice is the payment we must know.

[Verse 2] Judah stood up to the father, "Send the boy along with me, We go at once so we may live, our children and you and we. I guarantee his safety, you hold me personally bound, If I do not bring him back to you, I will bear the blame found. If we had not delayed so long, we could have returned twice!" Israel said, "If it must be, take gifts and pay the price. Take balm and honey, spices, nuts, and silver double-take, May God grant you mercy now, for Benjamin’s safe sake."

[Bridge] They brought the gifts and silver, hurried down to Egypt's side, When Joseph saw Benjamin, all his secret grief he hid inside. He told his steward, "Take these men, prepare a meal at noon!" But the brothers were filled with dread, beneath the Egyptian moon. They thought, "It is the silver from the sacks they wish to claim, To seize us now as slaves and strike us with lasting shame."

[Verse 3] They spoke to Joseph's steward, "We came here to buy food, But our silver was returned, we brought it back as good. We do not know who placed it there, but here is silver new," The steward said, "Do not fear, the God of your father gave treasure to you." He brought their brother Simeon out, water to wash their feet, They prepared their many gifts, for Joseph they would meet. When Joseph came, they bowed low down, presenting all they had, "How is your aged father, your servant, is he still glad?"

[Verse 4] He saw his brother Benjamin, his own mother’s son standing there, He asked, "Is this your youngest boy?" A deep emotion to bear. "God be gracious to you, my son," he murmured quickly low, Deeply moved, Joseph hurried out, a place to weep to go. He washed his face, controlling himself, he came back strong and clear, He ordered food, they sat apart, conquering all his fear. He served them portions equally, according to their age, But Benjamin's portion was five times, turning a new page.

[Outro]