The two weeks meant to end the crisis stretch into forty years, and the only question left is a weary “now what?” In Numbers 20 the whole congregation reaches that breaking point in the wilderness of Zin—no water, Miriam gone, and hearts already wishing they had simply perished sooner.
Little sins that seem almost harmless still multiply until they leave us too blind even for grace. In Genesis 4 the Lord asks Cain why his face has fallen and warns that if he does not do well, sin is crouching at the door—its desire contrary to him, but he must rule over it.
As we enter into a season of preparation in the weeks ahead of Easter, Ash Wednesday is a time to stop, reflect and place before God those sins and struggles we are burdened by. Join us for a brief evening prayer service that will include receiving ashes, a sign God’s people have participated in since the Old Testament times to express our frailty before God. As we take this time together, we will be reminded of the life He offers us in His Word.
We think we have everything under control and know how to anticipate our weaknesses, yet sin still sneaks up looking attractive and attacks when least expected. In Genesis 3 a crafty serpent made the forbidden tree seem good for food, a delight to the eyes, and desirable for wisdom.
When God's holiness draws near, our first instinct is often to back away—to put some distance between ourselves and the One whose law shows us how unholy we are. That's exactly what Israel does in Exodus 20 after hearing the Ten Commandments: they tremble at the mountain and tell Moses, “You speak to us… but do not let God speak to us, lest we die.”
