Numbers 35:2 “Command the Israelites to give the Levites towns to live in from the inheritance the Israelites will possess. And give them pasturelands around the towns.”
Three things strike me about this passage. 1. The LORD gave directions for the inheritance the Israelites received. It wasn’t just, “Here it is. Good luck.” 2. The LORD looked after not only those in high standing, the priests, His priests, but also those who had killed unintentionally. That’s not a group we usually think of God providing for.
Numbers 35:6 “Six of the towns you give the Levites will be cities of refuge, to which a person who has killed someone may flee….”
3. After all the instruction and direction, the LORD reminded the Israelites the He is with them. He didn’t guide them out of Egypt and then leave them to their own devices. He didn’t get them through 38 years in the wilderness and say good luck. He is dwelling among them, He’s right there, and He reminds them of that fact.
Numbers 35:21 “…or if out of enmity one person hits another with their fist so that the other dies, that person shall be put to death; that person is a murderer….”
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for this reminder that You are with us, caring for us, providing for us. Thank You for not leaving us to our own devices, for caring for all—from greatest to least, and for being present always. Draw us closer. Help us to shine Your light. Amen.
Numbers 35:34 “Do not defile the land where you live and where I dwell, for I, the LORD, dwell among the Israelites.”
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.