Our Wilderness

Historic? Yes. Triumphant? Certainly. Memorable? Of course. Even auspicious. Joshua and Caleb leading the Israelites across the Jordan River was an event worthy of all of these descriptive words. It was an occasion of immense proportions. They were pilgrims who had endured forty years in the wilderness, suffering incredible hardship, as well as blessings beyond description. The lessons garnered from their experiences would fortify them for the years ahead, but what of future generations? Would they be doomed to suffer through similar circumstances? Undoubtedly, except for the foresight of an all-knowing and all-wise God who understood the nature of His children. So a memorial was built, right there at the site. It was meant to be a testimony to the provision and enablement of God. In years to come, youngsters would see it and wonder, then learn of the faithfulness and power and mercy of their God. They would learn of many historic events that would bring them to one conclusion-their survival, their existence, their every blessing all came from the hand of their great God. Such foundational lessons would become the basis for future decisions, personal or otherwise. Many centuries later, the settlement and establishment of another nation would prove to be an auspicious, triumphant occasion of immense proportions. Pilgrims had come to a wilderness and endured years of hardship, as well as incredible blessings. The years ahead would, no doubt, hold innumerable obstacles to be conquered, and impose unrelenting challenges. From where would future generations receive guidance, wisdom or hope? What would provide the foundational lessons that would be the basis for decisions, personal or otherwise? Like the Israelites, our forefathers went to considerable lengths to acknowledge and preserve the memory of the blessings and empowerment they received from the hand of God. Monuments were established, inscribed with God’s Word. Documents were created, interspersed with references to the Creator and His law. Public prayer was common, and in times of struggle even more so. Legal proceedings included an oath to God. For decade upon decade, these customs continued, and this fledgling nation thrived and prospered. Following the Lord and believing His Word is not something that can be mandated. As in ancient times, a choice must be made on a personal level whether to heed the lessons and testimonies of those who have gone before. As in ancient times, there will always be those who cannot abide such devotion and reliance on a righteous God. Some would claim all of these things are just outmoded symbols and beliefs and have no place in today’s world. It is an old argument, but the climate has changed for conservatives of all ilk, especially Christians. More and more, our country has begun to resemble the wilderness. We can dwell on that, complaining and fearful, or we can see it for what it is, while remembering that the battle belongs to the Lord. That’s what Joshua and Caleb chose. What will you choose to do? His Word still stands, regardless of the opposition, and our charge still holds. Within the heart of devoted followers of God, His vital truths reign. Regardless of the route we take to accomplish it, our mission is to be faithful, to trust, and to demonstrate God’s love, peace and joy to all those around us. That’s a big order, but it comes straight from His Word. Instead of being offended and intimidated by the escalating opposition, live out your faith. Be the Bible others refuse to read. Phots courtesy of Carrie Devorah