This portion is very different as it deals with many areas of death. It begins with the red heifer in
Chapter 19 and Gods statute for purification from contact with a dead body. Great details are given and
this will be a perpetual ordinance.
In Chapter 20 we read of the death of Miriam, Moses’ older sister, which was such a great loss to the
Israelites. In this same chapter we find there is a lack of water in the wilderness and Moses and Aaron
seek the Lord for answers. God speaks, giving them specific instructions, as He always does, to “speak”
to the rock and water will flow. Moses does not heed the instructions, speaks harshly to the people, and
“strikes” the rock twice with his rod. The water flows, however, a great price is paid.
God speaks to Moses and says neither he nor Aaron will enter the Promised Land. At the end of the
chapter we read of the death of Aaron.
In Chapter 21 the people begin to speak against Moses….again. Not only Moses, but they speak against
God. Gods anger is kindled and He sends fiery servants among them. These serpents bite the Israelites
and death enters the camp. Moses seeks the Lord and is given instructions. This time he follows
correctly and death is stopped.
There is so much to observe in these chapters and lessons to learn.
Why a red heifer? Why THIS statute NOW in the Book of Numbers? Why? Because God said so… it’s HIS
statute and He is the Law Maker. Just heed His instructions.
Why was Moses denied entrance to the Promised Land after all his great leadership to the children of
Israel?
Moses had lost his sister AND soon his brother… his strongest supports… and then he finds after all his
work with the children of Israel, he will never enter the Promised Land with them. Why? He was a great
leader, chosen by God. He was held accountable by God. He was expected to follow the instructions of
God. God accepted “no excuses”….. not even in the midst of Moses mourning the loss of his sister.
And the snake on a poll? God always provides for our protection. The people were supposed to look up
to God who would provide protection and trust in Him. He will always provide a way for our blessing.
…HE IS LIFE. Let us never let our humanity get in the way of Gods Miracles and Blessings! Always
Listen..Heed…Follow….Acknowledge That is the path from Death to Life!
Read Also
HAFTARAH Judges 11:1-33
New Testament John 3:1-21