Robert Hecquet, Israelites Crossing the Jordan River, c. 1720-1775

Our Old Testament readings for the next few days are from the Book of Joshua, the successor of Moses. He was a man of battles and wars, who led the Israelites in their conquest of Canaan and their possession of the Promised Land. “Joshua fit the battle of Jericho, and the walls came tumbling down.”

As a warrior he was concerned with preparing troops for battle, getting weapons ready, strategizing for the battle, but Joshua begins his campaign by first reminding the people what’s more important than all that: “Remember who you are.”

Gathering the Israelites before the Jordan River, Joshua orders the priests to bring before them the ark of the covenant, God’s pledge that they are his people. They bring the jar of manna reminding them that God sustains them. They are God’s people, not insignificant slaves. They’re God’s children, cared for, with rights and privileges and promises.

Only by remembering who they are will they be able to cross the Jordan and break down the walls of Jericho and take possession of the land.

Remember who you are.