Now that the boundaries had been established in Israel, cities of refuge were appointed. If you remember, I compared those cities to Jesus, our refuge and protector from the consequences of our sins if we run to him. The chosen cities were significant in that they were only a half-day journey from anywhere in Israel, and they were situated on a mountain so a fugitive could easily find their way to it. Any sojourner or non-Israelite could also find refuge there or a priest to give them guidance or prayer, being they were not allowed to enter the Tabernacle where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. Until the cities were actually picked, we didn’t know their names, which chapter 20 of Joshua points out. These names show how detailed God is in his plan for all of his creation, especially for our salvation in Jesus. These are the names of the cities:
Kedesh means holy
Shechem, a shoulder
Hebron, fellowship
Bezer, a fortification
Ramoth, high or exalted
Golan, joy or exultation
Isn’t that a picture of Jesus? He is all those things and more. Run to him when you are hurting and in trouble. It may be uphill, but he becomes your safe haven, your city of refuge and protection once you get there.
That the slayer that killeth any person unawares and unwittingly may flee thither: and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood. Joshua 20:3
No comments:
Post a Comment