11 Mar 2008

Numbers 15:17-16:40, Mark 15, Psalm 54, Proverbs 11:5-6

Num 15:32 While the people of Israel were in the wilderness, they found a man gathering sticks on the Sabbath day. 33 And those who found him gathering sticks brought him to Moses and Aaron and to all the congregation. 34 They put him in custody, because it had not been made clear what should be done to him. 35 And the Lord said to Moses, “The man shall be put to death; all the congregation shall stone him with stones outside the camp.” 36 And all the congregation brought him outside the camp and stoned him to death with stones, as the Lord commanded Moses.

How many of us actually observe this rest that God intended? The above story tell about the severity of ot observing the Sabbath and God has to put fear and that order can be restored. Looking at God's perspective, taking rest is trusting in His provision. The man had probably wanted extra and when eveyone is resting, he chanced it and took advantage.

The Korah's rebellion
The first story tells of Korah and 250 men who complain about the special religious status of the Levites. There is a contest involving censers; Korah's people come to the Tent and are consumed by fire; their censers are taken away, destroyed, and symbolically refashioned; the 14,000 people who support the rebellion or who are unhappy with Korah's punishment are killed by a plague. The story appears to reflect a struggle for priestly privilege. Once upon a time (as attested by Psalms) Korah's people were full priests and singers, but after a power struggle they were reduced to doorkeepers.

The second tradition tells of the rebellion of Dathan and Abiram, and members of the tribe of Reuben, against the civil authority of Moses. They refuse a confrontation with him. Moses appeals to the community, which backs him up and withdraws from the rebels, who in turn are swallowed by the earth. This story may represent the memory of an intertribal struggle. Originally the tribe of Reuben was very important, but in time it was dislodged from its original preeminence. This is also reflected in the Jacob tale, where the first‑born Reuben is passed over in favor of others.

God has placed authority over us. And Jesus said - give to Ceasar that which belongs to Ceasar. Obediance is always better than sacrifice and those who want to be first will become last.

I pray over this two matters. Firstly, I need to learn and trust God that He will provides and secondly, let not ego nor pride overtake me.

I too want to remember Rachael and ask that you will be able to help her to complete her work.