Crossing the Jordan

While all Israel were crossing over on dry ground, the priests who bore the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, until the entire nation finished crossing over the Jordan. -Joshua 3:17

Did you know that God also parted the Jordan River for the Israelites?  It was very reminiscent of the crossing of the Red (or Reed) Sea. Only this time they were not being chased. There is much symbolism in this crossing.

• It shows that God was with Joshua in the same way that he was with Moses.
• The ark of the covenant was God's throne on earth. Literally, the Lord went into the dangerous river first, demonstrating his role as Israel''s protector.
• Almost none of the people who were crossing the Jordan witnessed the miracle at the Red Sea. The parting of the Jordan symbolized God's love for this new generation.
• Crossing the Jordan was highly symbolic of a break with Israel's past. God is "pushing them out of the nest" so to speak. No more manna. They must now conquer their enemies and subdue the land God intended for them.

God of our past, present and future,

May we always feel your presence in our daily struggles and joys.

Amen.