Numbers 20:14–29; Romans 6:1–11; Matthew 21:1–11
“And here we are in Kadesh.” This is a place we all come to, sooner or later, if not often. It seems the logical route to where we are headed. It is easier, more direct. Surely, we think, this must be the way God wants us to go. But no real guidance from God has brought us here—no pillar of fire or smoke. Kadesh is an obstacle, sometimes because the past has caught up to us there, always because we are not following the Lord. So we turn back from Kadesh, seeking a new route. For Aaron and eventually Moses, there would be death on the way.
On our journey to another promised land, there are setbacks, and it seems there is no way through. Are we walking in newness of life, or seeking a way through Kadesh? If we would follow the Lord, and do as he directs us, we must turn back from Kadesh. For the way to the promised land leads through death on the mountain, not the easy way through Kadesh. We must always journey through Mount Calvary, through baptism into the death of Christ Jesus, and walking in newness of life.
Prayer: Lead me to delight in your will and walk in your ways, Lord. Amen.
Today’s devotion was written by Mark Ryman, Communications Coordinator for the NALC.