I love the prophetic hints that build Israel's story ahead of her reality. Here Joseph returns the body of Jacob to the land of Canaan and the inhabitants of that land have no idea who is among them and why. Nor do Joseph's brothers know what this land will mean to their offspring some 430 years later.
Genesis 50:10-11 NIV
"When they reached the threshing floor of Atad, near the Jordan, they lamented loudly and bitterly; and there Joseph observed a seven-day period of mourning for his father. When the Canaanites who lived there saw the mourning at the threshing floor of Atad, they said, “The Egyptians are holding a solemn ceremony of mourning.” That is why that place near the Jordan is called Abel Mizraim."
At least we have a road map, though it too is designed to require some spiritual compass. The beauty is that the signal which activates the true north for that compass is compassion.
Much of the life of the God-man, Jesus was to demonstrate that very truth.
The woman at the well, the Widow Nain, Zacchaeus, Lazarus ... all hints at what should direct our steps.
Think about it, and have a Happy New Year!
Hope you enjoy your hog jowls and black eyed peas