Save First, Spend Afterward

Save First, Spend Afterward
Genesis 41:25-57

Writers and TV producers have noted that the cell phone and other technological devices have undermined some of the staple plot devices that make novels and movies work. In Casablanca, Rick need not have been in any doubt as to why Ilsa stood him up at the train station in Paris; she would have sent him a message. No one ever needs to get lost; they have GPS. A news report concerning this effect of technology on novels and movies gave Joseph as an example: he could have dialed for help from the cistern. So if Joseph had owned a cell phone, Judaism would not have existed, a reporter commented. (Admittedly, this might not seem to follow, though there might have been no need for an exodus, which is a pretty far-reaching consequence.) More immediately, Joseph would not be in a position to have to make his plaintive comments about missing his family: “God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father’s household.” Just call them, Joseph...