DAILY READING
REFLECTION
Covenant Cast Members
by Jennifer Jerrome
As Moses climbed Mount Nebo and surveyed the land the Israelites were to inherit, God said "I have let you see it with your eyes, but you will not cross over into it." (v.4) Do you think Moses felt cheated by this? Was he angry or disappointed?
Prior to Moses, God made a covenant with Abraham promising him innumerable offspring. "And to your descendants I will give this land" (Genesis 15:18) Throughout the lineage of Abraham, numerous people played a role in moving the Israelites closer to the fulfillment of the covenant.
Today’s passage ends with the mention of another covenant keeper – Joshua. Joshua was filled with the spirit of wisdom. It was because of Moses that Joshua was able to fulfill his role and continue the work set out for him.
So, to answer the question… Did Moses feel cheated? - No. Moses died at 120 but "his eyes were not weak nor his strength gone" (v.7) He fulfilled the role God intended and when the time came to leave this earth, he was ready for his reward in heaven. Just as God said to Abram, "you will go to your ancestors in peace" (Genesis 15:15), Moses did the same.
Abraham, Moses, and Joshua may be featured players in the Bible, but we all play important roles. And though we may not enter the “promised land” on this earth, we can rest knowing our lives are instrumental in God's story and we will enter the greatest promised land in heaven.
PRAYER
Father,
We all are connected by your faithful promises. Thank you for giving each of us a role to play in your kingdom. May our lives serve the next generation, and may we find peace in knowing where the promised land truly lies.
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