Today we wrap up the book of Numbers, the fourth Book of Moses. The borders are established for the Promised Land. Leadership is put in place. Levites (those entrusted with keeping the nation committed to Yahweh) are taken care of.
Interestingly, God, in a final note, takes care of those who accidentally take the life of another. Even after all the bloodshed in this book, God is telling His people that life is sacred and must be protected. "Bloodshed defiles the land" (35:33). Senseless murder is not to be equated with justified killing (as in wartime). Something to think about.
The nation is secure. All is in place. Will the people continue to follow Yahweh in their new land of Promise?
Read it here.
Interestingly, God, in a final note, takes care of those who accidentally take the life of another. Even after all the bloodshed in this book, God is telling His people that life is sacred and must be protected. "Bloodshed defiles the land" (35:33). Senseless murder is not to be equated with justified killing (as in wartime). Something to think about.
The nation is secure. All is in place. Will the people continue to follow Yahweh in their new land of Promise?
Read it here.
How weird would it be to grow up in a town that was set aside for the manslayer to flee? What would that do to the reputation of thriving of a community? My wife grew up in a town where there is a prison, but I wander if that perhaps is not a weak analogy.
ReplyDelete