What did you think of the reading today? Did you find it a little curious that all these men were moving rocks around? What could be the significance? Sometimes we encounter passages like this that really make us wonder. Do you think there is some hidden meaning here? Whether there is or not, ask God to let this passage speak to you.
To me, the obedience of all involved in this story shines brightly. We have Joshua who listened to God about choosing 12 men. That was in yesterday’s reading. Today God reveals to Joshua what they are to do. Joshua was obedient. The men he chose were obedient. The people all crossed the Jordan were obedient. The priests were steadfast in holding up the Ark and making sure it, and all the people, made the trek safely across.
We don’t see bickering or fighting. We don’t see complaining. Although it sounds like the bed of the Jordan River was rocky, at least to some degree. That could make for slippery and uneven walking conditions thus resulting in a less than desirable experience. This obedience had to put a smile on God’s face. This was the day he had been waiting for since he made the promise! Maybe just a flash of time to God, but he had to be so happy to finally be able to deliver on his promised gift and see such acts of obedience.
So, what about the twelve stones? I see it as a memorial to God’s greatness. Sure, it wasn’t the people who thought of it; it was God. Don’t you think it would be a lot easier for the people to remember such a deliverance if they had a visual reminder? Think about how you’ve tied a thread around your finger to remember something or written yourself a reminder note. God knew the importance this activity would serve as a memorial.
How do you keep God in the front of your mind? What are some of your “memorial” practices? Perhaps it’s a Bible saying hanging on the wall, or a Bible app on the first screen of your phone, or an alarm set to remind you to read your Bible or pray. Do you need to build your own memorial to God’s power?
Think about how busy you get each day. I know some nights I don’t publish my devotional blog until after 10pm! How does that happen? My intention is to START the day with God, not meet him when it’s nearly dinnertime! (Yes we have a strange time schedule, but it works for us and I love how we’ve reset our business and life to fit our sleep schedule, instead of the other way around like it was our whole life!)
We need to be careful of whatever activities we have that might be shifting our focus from God. That is what the twelve stones remind me of today. Activities will come, but our focus and attention should never stray far from God. It takes discipline. Like carrying large boulders around an empty riverbed to give God the glory!
Let’s pray … Lord, thank you for giving me a hunger for you. Forgive me for those times in my life when I don’t put you first. It is my goal and desire to always include you in everything I say and do. May I never forget what you have done for me and always remember to share your story with those who need to hear. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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