Israel had a long-sleeved varicolored ornamental coat or tunic of varied colors made just for Joseph. Because of the favoritism his brothers hated him and this was intensified by those dreams that Joseph had concerning sheaves of wheat and stars bowing down to him.
This coat of many colors was a royal type of garment, long and beautiful. Whereas the other brothers coats were likely plain colored, functional and only knee length. Most of the clothing that was worn during this era was natural colored, so a special garment of various colors was extra special. Being long sleeved also made it more valuable. I imagine that the coat was presented at a special gathering, maybe his birthday. At any rate you can be sure that a fine meal was prepared for the occasion. Roasted lamb, fresh vegetables, breads and cakes---a meal for a favorite person---a beloved son. The other brothers probably had not been treated to a special meal and definitely not presented with a multicolored tunic. No wonder they hated their little brother. Fathers and mothers shouldn’t show favoritism---and brothers and sisters should love and honor their siblings, as well as their parents. Favoritism and sibling rivalry are obviously ancient “diseases” that can fester and ruin family relationships. Look at your family relationships and don’t let these “diseases” ruin the love you have for one another. Don’t bear grudges or hard feelings, since those can lead to bitterness that can poison you (not the one you are angry or displeased with) and creates a barrier between you and God (as well as between you and others). This is easier said than done--but worth the effort. As it says in 1 John 4:7-8, "Beloved, let us love one another."
Let the meal you share with the Lord today fill each of you with His love, peace, and joy together.
Pray for good relationships within your family.
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