A Weblog Dedicated to the Discussion of the Christian Faith and 21st Century Life

A Weblog Dedicated to the Discussion of the Christian Faith and 21st Century Life
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I do not seek to understand that I may believe, but I believe in order to understand. For this also I believe, –that unless I believed, I should not understand.-- St. Anselm of Canterbury (1033-1109)

Tuesday, March 01, 2016

Finally at Home: A Lectionary Reflection on Joshua 5:9-12

Joshua 5:9-12

The Israelites have now entered the Promised Land of Canaan. Slavery in Egypt was a bitter memory passed to the next generation that was born in the Sinai wilderness. The great victory of God's deliverance of his people from slavery was also passed along from those who experienced it to their children.

The Passover meal eaten in haste by the soon-to-be freed Israelites in Egypt had not been observed during the years of wandering. Now, after having crossed the Jordan River, it is a time to remember the freedom secured by God so long ago in a hostile land, and to anticipate the liberty of a land promised to Abraham and Sarah and their descendants. After forty long years, the Passover is celebrated once again by the Israelites, though not as oppressed slaves, but as free people in an ancient homeland that for them is brand new.

The arrival across the Jordan to their long sought destination meant that the disgrace of slavery in Egypt was no more and the harsh days of wilderness wanderings were over. They no longer need to eat the manna-- food for wanderers-- but the produce of the land-- food for people that are finally home.

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