Numbers 13:1-2,25-14:1,26-35; Ps 106 Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people; Matt 15:21-28
On every step of the journey from Egypt to the promised land there has been one consist reality: rejection, rebellion an forgetfulness.
The ole adage of one step forward and two steps back would be a good way to sum up the experience of Israel in regards to God's care and bounty.
The people continually looked for a reason to disbelieve or distrust.
Have you ever known someone like that? Someone who just seemed to reject any notion of progress or change? Or have you known someone who always brings a negative attitude to every situation: the glass is always half empty no matter what goes on.
This seemed to be the majority of attitude among the people of Israel.
They were always biting the hand that fed them and discrediting or discounting the power and majesty of God.
God would do an amazing thing and it would linger in their memory banks briefly before it got buried beneath the cry of "what have you done for me lately."
Today's reading is a perfect example of this reality. God's sends 12 men to reconnoiter the promised land. The people have finally made it. They were on the brink of seeing their dream of freedom fully realized.
Excitement and enthusiasm filled the air.
40 days the men were given to explore and they come back with info that startled the people and began to bring fear and dread.
The whole nation began to turn sour and negative toward God's agenda of taking the land by storm.
But their was one force that was faithful and true. Caleb was the one solitary voice that spoke confidently in the strength of God to lead them forth.
One bright spot, one ray of hope.
Sometimes we may feel as if we are the only voice of hope and light. We are in good company.
No comments:
Post a Comment