“For a long time now – to this very day – you have not deserted your fellow Israelites but have carried out the mission that the Lord your God gave you.” (Joshua 22:3 NIV)
In this chapter, Joshua turns his attention toward the Eastern tribes. Maybe you remember the tribe of Rueben, Gad and half of the tribe of Mannasah liked the land just to the east of the Jordan River (modern day Jordan). When they passed through this territory on their way to conquer Canaan, they asked Moses if they could occupy it. He agreed but made them swear to stay in the fight with their brothers until all of Israel enjoyed the same level of land possession. The three tribes obliged, leaving wives and children in homes east of the Jordan as they spent years fighting on behalf of the other nine tribes. At the time of this scripture writing, the war was finally over and the tribes were settling into their ascribed territories. Joshua singled out these three tribes to recognize their brave and selfless acts and issue a final warning before they return to the transjordanian plains.
“Return to your homes in the land that Moses the servant of the Lord gave you on the other side of the Jordan. But be very careful to keep the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the Lord gave you” to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to Him, to keep His commands, to hold fast toHim and serve Him with all your heart and all your soul.” (Joshua 22:4-5 NIV)
Joshua’s instruction to these tribes still apply to us today. In short? Stay on mission. Go home and live life but don’t forget the cause. Be Kingdom people and build lives that honor God.
We still live on the outskirts of Canaan. We won’t cross over the border until death or rapture. Despite our geographical location, we are still God’s people, subject to His law and authority.
The three Transjordan tribes first act was to build an altar. It wasn’t a place of false worship or a replacement for tabernacle worship. It was a memorial, a physical reminder of their ongoing commitment to the living God. It also stood as a witness to anyone who entered their land, they were still God’s people.
How are you doing with Joshua’s instructions? Are you still on mission? Do you identify as Kingdom? And what memorials stand in your life? What exists to remind you and others of your commitment to Christ?
Lord, please help us continue to remember our commitments to You and Your Kingdom. May we build memorials that remind us of our true homeland. We want to live on mission. Amen.