Some Thoughts on Joshua

(July's Crossroads Article)

"After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord spoke to Joshua son of Nun, Moses' assistant, saying, 'My servant Moses is dead. Now proceed to cross the Jordan, you and all this people, into the land that I am giving to them...'" Joshua 1:1-2

In preparation for Camp E.D.G.E. Vacation Bible School, I have become caught up in one of the stories in particular, the life of Joshua. Joshua was Moses' assistant. Joshua was a young man, more than likely born during the people of Israel's wandering in the desert. He had been well-mentored in the art of wandering in the desert. He knew how to collect manna, he knew how to watch for the pillar of clouds and the pillar of fire. He was ready to take over. However, God had different plans. When it became time for Joshua to lead, God wanted to lead the people of Israel into their new home. The only qualification Joshua had for this new direction was his faith that God would lead and provide.

As a church, we are in the midst of the still-speaking God working in new and different ways in our community. Much of what we have learned about what a church is and what a church does is of little or no use to us now. Yet God has put you and me here to lead in such a time as this. And make no mistake, child of God, you are a leader. We have been called to lead people into the promised land of loving God, loving others, and serving the world. Our qualifications are that we are available and that we are confident that God accompanies us in our journey and in our work.

As we move forward as a church, I invite you to hear God's words to Joshua ringing clear through the millennia to us: "Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

Peace,
Pastor Jason