SCRIPTURE: Numbers 35
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
The Levites were given towns among the other tribes, since they did not receive land. These towns were their refuge, their place to call home. In addition, six of these towns were set apart as cities of refuge, for people who were accused of a crime (for example, murder) and need a safe place to seek protection and justice. These cities of refuge were not places to escape the law, but to escape street justice.
The principle behind this is the need for justice. The cities of refuge were not intended to protect the guilty, but the innocent. The guilty cannot hide from God. Jesus stresses that being religious will not cover being guilty. He urges the guilty to seek justice and reconciliation: “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.” [Matthew 5:23] Hiding in church, pretending that everything is OK, while ignoring the sin in our lives, will not work with the Lord.
Deal with your sin. Be honest. Even though we can try to hide from our shame and guilt and their consequences, they pollute the soul, as well as our relationships, and ultimately our fellowship with God. The mistreatment of others will hinder our prayers [1 Peter 3:7]. Moses speaks about murder as polluting the land, but Jesus makes it clear that even vicious or hurtful thoughts pollute the land – “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, `Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment.” [Matthew 5:21-22]
Repentance and reconciliation are essential to healing and blessing. God does not want us hiding in church (like a city of refuge), offering our gifts or songs or offerings, while unresolved sin and guilt remain. Stop hiding, face the truth, and then the Lord can help us. He has dealt with the justice issue on the cross, but we need to repent. When we seek the cross as our place of refuge, dealing honestly with our sin and guilt, doing everything within our power to reconcile, then He can be a true refuge for us. He is a refuge for those who truly repent, admit their sin, and seek His help in changing.
PRAYER:
Lord, You can help me, but only if I allow You to. Forgive me for hiding behind a religious mask. I come to the cross for refuge.
The Levites were given cities among the people. God’s presence is not only in the tabernacle, but God dwells among His people. He is in the midst of them and this is a physical reminder of God dwelling among them.
The cities of refuge afforded protection for unintentional murder. They had to tell their story to the assembly and if granted entrance, he was to remain there until the high priest died. I too need to take refuge in the blood of Christ who forgives all my sin. I need to come clean and confess and then I will have life. As the city of refuge was for all so too is Christ Jesus the answer for all who want to live life.
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.
Refrain
On Christ the solid Rock I stand,
All other ground is sinking sand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
When darkness seems to hide His face,
I rest on His unchanging grace.
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.