You Go First, Daddy

The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood firm on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground. (Josh 3:17)

The crossing of the Jordan was an amazing miracle. It put everyone on notice, both Israelites and Canaanites, that God is sovereign and he was giving the land of Canaan to his people Israel. The ark went before them and stood in the middle while everyone crossed over. It symbolized God’s presence and his power. The people could take comfort as they crossed that they would be safe because, metaphorically, God went first to show them it was safe. It reminds me of those times as a child when our parents would also calm our fears by going first. If Daddy can do it I can do it. It also reminds me how Jesus was willing to show us the way. He endured every temptation and suffered every pain so that I can take comfort and courage from his example. I think of King David saying, “You hem me in – behind and before.” (Ps 139:5) Only God can be in two places at once. He goes before me to show me the way and comes behind me to watch my back. No one can snatch me out of his hand. (Jn 10:28). I am secure in his presence and encouraged by his example. Thank you, Lord, for showing us the way.

Dawn in a Land of Darkness

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. (Is 9:2)

Matthew quotes this verse to describe the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. (Mt 4:16) Light is a powerful metaphor in Scripture. We were all born into darkness – the darkness of ignorance, the darkness of error – with the shadow of death hanging over us. Jesus is the light of the world. (Jn 8:12) He is the light of truth, the light of life and the light of hope. We associate darkness with fear – the fear of death, the fear of unseen enemies or the fear of the unknown. But Jesus comes and casts out all fear. In him are knowledge and wisdom and power. Now the way forward is lit and the end is known. I will live in the light of his truth and the blessing of his love forever and ever. Amen!