Joshua 19:1-20:9; Luke 19:28-48; Psalm 88:1-18; Proverbs 13:12-14
Once all the land was divided, there was one more land designation that God wanted to make. It was the creation of cities of refuge. These cities were safe places to go in case someone had made an accidental mistake and they needed a fresh start.
Because the ruling law was “an eye for an eye”, even though someone made a mistake and took another person’s life, they were liable to die unless they made it to the city of refuge. This City of Refuge was a safe place and a new beginning for the person. They would remain there in the city of refuge until the priest died. Once the priest died, all former judgments were cancelled.
God cared enough about His people that He did not leave them to die when they made mistakes. This is an act of love and this was in the Old Testament. So, if God could handle people’s mistakes under the Old Covenant, how much more does God have a city of refuge for you in this New Covenant?
In Christ, all of your mistakes, failings and failures, are all forgiven and you have a fresh start. Thank God today that Jesus is your refuge. He keeps you safe from the penalty of your sins!
Tomorrow’s Reading: Joshua 21:1-22:20; Luke 20:1-26; Psalm 89:1-13; Proverbs 13:15-16