THEME: Reuben is one of the forgotten characters of the Bible -- the one who, by normal processes, should have received the birthright as the firstborn son of Israel. He tells of the common experience of feeling like a second-class son, because Israel favored Joseph. He shares family events, as well as his inner soul.

SETTING FOR THE SERMON MONOLOGUE: Most persons have heard the story of Joseph and his brothers. Many people have heard the story over and over. They have rarely, if ever, heard the perspective of any of the brothers. There are two sides to every story.

Text: Genesis 37:19-34

My name is not a common one in your society. The only place you seem to use it is not for one of your sons, but for a sandwich made of Jewish rye, kosher corned beef, and sauerkraut. If you haven't gue…