For a full description of the (Y4) reading plan, see the “About” page.
Num. 7
This is a very repetitive chapter. Tediously repetitive, if we’re honest. Is there a reason the offerings were detailed all twelve times? One thing I can say is that it does force you to notice that the offering is the same for each tribal leader. So maybe that’s the point. We all come to God the same way, through the same offering of the same Christ. It doesn’t matter who we are, where we are from, or what we have or have done – there is only one way to God.
Ps. 42-43
Both of these Psalms ask God why He has rejected or forgotten. And both cry out, “Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why are you disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God.” (Ps. 43:5). Despair and feeling forsaken by God is a place we all find ourselves at some point in time. Jesus when through it, too. After deep destress leading up to His crucifixion, Jesus cried out from the cross, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matt. 27:46:b). But despair did indeed turn to praise as He exited that tomb.
So it is with us. Even when God feels distant, He remains our firm foundation and our sure hope. We can know with certainty that if we hold to that hope our despair will turn to praise because God proved His faithfulness through Christ. The transformation will be so complete that even our face will show it.
SoS. 5
Reading this made me think about “the fall”.
- “I have come into my garden…” (SoS 5:1a). God went to the Garden, looking for Adam and Eve.
- “I have taken off my dress…” (SoS 5:3a). However, they had become aware of their nakedness, so they did not go to God.
- “They struck and wounded me…” (SoS 5:7b). Adam and Eve’s sin led to separation and harm.
At the same time, it made me think about God’s call to us through Jesus Christ.
- “I was asleep but my heart was awake.” (SoS 5:2a). Though we are dead, God speaks to our hearts.
- “A voice! My beloved was knocking…” (SoS 5:2b). Jesus Himself said, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.” (Rev. 3:20).
- For those who awake from their sleep, turn from their shame, and open that door, Jesus becomes for us as the bride’s beloved was to her. “His mouth is full of sweetness. And he is wholly desirable. This is my beloved and this is my friend…” (SoS 5:16).