![]() The redemption of Israel from the bondage of Egypt is what made them holy unto the Lord. They were God’s chosen possession to be priests unto God in the world. The event of the crossing of Yam Suph (Sea of Reeds) was one that was the decisive finality of Israel’s life in Egypt. Although Israel had left Egypt after the death of every Egyptian firstborn son at Pharaoh’s release, it was at the waters where Israel’s life with God will be free. After Pharaoh changes his mind (what else do you expect? Pharaoh had changed his mind on many of the plagues) he sends 600 chariots to chase after the mass band of Hebrew slaves. Moses led the Israelites by God’s instructions. These orders by the Lord led to Israel facing the sea. Israel panicked seeing the Egyptians coming for them. Moses himself wondered what shall be done. Then the Lord called on Moses to go forward and to stretch out his staff over the sea to divide it. Sure enough that is what happens, as a strong eastern wind came upon the waters and the sea divided: and the people of Israel went into the midst of the sea on dry ground, the waters being a wall to them on their right hand and on their left (Exodus 14:22). The wall of water that led to Israel’s salvation will ruse the Egyptians into thinking they can capture the Israelites. That is until the Lord sets Himself against the Egyptians plan. The Lord instructs Moses to stretch out his staff over the sea that was used to divide it and now cause the sea to come over the Egyptians. The wall of water falls flat upon the Egyptians and they become instant fish food. Another significant event in Israel’s life takes place when they enter the Land of Canaan. The first city they are positioned to subdue is Jericho. The description of Jericho is that of being a fortified bastion. The leadership of Joshua comes to the forefront when he leads Israel to conquer Jericho. The leadership of the priesthood bearing the ark of the covenant of the Lord will guide Israel to victory. Over the duration of seven days (hardly accidental) Israel is quiet marching around the city. On the seventh day, Joshua sounds the ram’s horn and the people shout. The outcome of their shout of praise is the wall of Jericho falls flat. Where have we heard this story before? The imagery of walls falling flat on Israel’s enemies at two pivotal moments in their history is purposeful, instructive and of God’s doing. Walls are symbolic of protection and defence. Egypt though found out that walls of water don’t stay up when God is for His people. Jericho found out that when God is for His people, the walls don’t stay up either. The crossing of the Red Sea and the taking over of the city of Jericho in the Promise Land are tied together. These twin events show that getting out Egypt was not the whole point. It is the giving of a place for God’s people to dwell that God’s Name be celebrated and known and loved and feared. Deuteronomy 6:23 says, “And He brought us out from there, that He might bring us in and give us the land that He swore to give to our fathers.” God brings His people out that God might bring us in. That is the logic of God’s deliverance. God rescues a people for Himself who do not just get loose of chains but live into the sonship that is our inheritance. It wasn’t enough for the walls to come down, it was to be a testimony of the power of God to gather a people unto Himself. The justice of God prevails as God’s people celebrate God’s victory in the world. The apostle Peter puts it this way: but you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9). The celebration of God’s victory in the world is why we sing, we listen to sermons, give tithes, share at the communion table and receive a benediction. God graciously blesses His people who are claimed, personalized and humanized with His Spirit. May we enact our identity as God’s people to God’s glory in God’s world.
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A Word from the PastorGreetings to all of you in Christ's name. This blog is for you to consider in your walk with God. Shalom. Archives
November 2016
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