February 13, 2024 - Numbers 31-36

The closing chapters of Numbers are filled with additional instructions about various types of offerings and vows.  And then, in chapter 31, is an abrupt change to the Lord's command to avenge the people n the Midianites, who had seduced the people into worshiping Baal at Peor (ch. 25).

As Israel made her way up to Canaan, the tribes of Reuben and Gad, who had a very great number of livestock (32:1), saw the land east of the Jordan River, that it was well watered and good for grazing.  Moses allowed their request to take that territory upon the two tribes’ assistance in taking the promised land and also included part of the tribe of Manasseh in the deal.  And finally, Moses recounted for the people their history, laid out the boundaries of the land, established cities for the Levites and the cities of refuge, and finally, gave instructions for female heirs.

The thing that strikes me about all this is that the biblical story is deeply rooted in history.  And without that history, the gospel has no context and makes little sense.  The story of God’s redemption is not merely philosophical speculation or wishful thinking or something of the sort.  It is real.  It is historical.  What a joy to read that story and to make it known!  And, as we remember the history, to look toward our own Promised Land.

On Jordan’s stormy banks I stand,

and cast a wishful eye

to Canaan's fair and happy land,

where my possessions lie.

When I shall reach that happy place,

I'll be forever blest,

for I shall see my Father's face,

and in his bosom rest.

I am bound for the promised land,

I am bound for the promised land;

oh, who will come and go with me?

I am bound for the promised land.   -- Samuel Stennett (1787)