Remember, Relate, and Rest!

Joshua’s first leadership test is to call the Israelites to fulfill their responsibilities, remind them of Moses’ instructions, and encourage them to unite in pursuit of their common goal. These are no easy orders. The details of a major military operation are present: the allocation of officers and leadership roles, the provision of campaign supplies, and the objective of a river crossing to take control of some 22,000 square kilometers. Such challenges are not only military and geopolitical, they are spiritual and psychological. Will the Israelites remember to fulfill their commitment to God and Moses, serving together in the battles to follow? Will the Reubenites, whose land allocation lies on the east, support those on the west side of the River Jordan? Will Joshua command sufficient authority to unite all the tribes in pursuit of the common goal?

The answer lies in God’s promises and our gratitude, faithfulness and obedience. The Israelites must remember who God is, what he has done, and what he has promised. He has redeemed the slaves from the oppression of Egypt, just as through Christ he redeems us from the slavery of sin. He has revealed his love for us in the death and resurrection of Christ, just as he revealed his saving power through the crossing of the Red Sea and the destruction of Pharaoh’s chariots. Now, like us, Israel must fulfill their responsibility to serve God and one another in unity and partnership. The people must relate to one another in mutual service and self-sacrifice. Joshua encourages them to share in the work of building the kingdom, in the smallest as well as the larger tasks. Only then will they truly experience the promised rest.

How has God called you to relate to his people today? Recall who God is and what he has done for you, and give thanks.