“At that time Joshua built an altar to the Lord, the God of Israel, on Mount Ebal, just as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded the people of Israel, as it is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, ‘an altar of uncut stones, upon which no man has wielded an iron tool.’ And they offered on it burnt offerings to the Lord and sacrificed peace offerings. And there, in the presence of the people of Israel, he wrote on the stones a copy of the law of Moses, which he had written. And all Israel, sojourner as well as native born, with their elders and officers and their judges, stood on opposite sides of the ark before the Levitical priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord, half of them in front of Mount Gerizim and half of them in front of Mount Ebal, just as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded at the first, to bless the people of Israel. And afterward he read all the words of the law, the blessing and the curse, according to all that is written in the Book of the Law. There was not a word of all that Moses commanded that Joshua did not read before all the assembly of Israel, and the women, and the little ones, and the sojourners who lived among them.” Joshua 8:30-35
Imagine the exhilaration and exhaustion of early days in the promised land. Israel had finally crossed over, conquering the first city, followed by defeat and judgment stemming from some of the people’s waylaid affections and priorities. Joshua could have cowered at the Lord’s wrath, or simply given in to exasperation with the fickle Israelites, but he knew God’s call and promises. He would take no credit for success because he knew the True Commander who’d led them there and secured their position. His heart was fixed, utterly dependent on his Lord and His word. He boldly kept Israel’s eyes on God, urging them in word and example to look to and live for Him. (Joshua 6:1-7; 7:1-4,16-21)
After victory we often crave rest. After upheaval we might collapse, or want to complain, or take some time to stew or regroup. After a harsh judgment from God we might lash out in anger, cower in fear, or timidly wait for next direction. Or, we can go to Jesus. We can continue in the call by making our way to the altar, a deliberate place of gratitude, surrender, recommitment, and praise. It is here we readjust and make sure we are aligned with His stated directions.
When we make the effort to praise God and acknowledge His hand and plan and promises, we can take no credit for success, nor responsibility for being an expert for what He gives us to do. By will and example we declare He is Lord, His word is supreme, and any favor or redemption or grace is His to bestow.
Where have I allowed circumstances to unsettle my plumb in Christ? Do I swing on a pendulum of emotional reactions, or in rhythm with truths found in His word? How will I establish, for myself and those I influence, God’s altar as foundation and focus?
Lord, You who are great above all gods and do all that You please. May I exalt Your renown throughout my days. (Psalm 135:3-6,8-13)
As the rain and snow 