We are reading the story of the waters of Meribah where the Israelites grumbled against the Lord and where the Lord provides water out of a rock. Two weeks ago we looked at the temptation of Jesus. This week we are looking at how God tests the Israelites. While God may test us, he does tempt us. Moses later failed this same test when he struck the rock in Numbers 20, misapplying glory to himself and misrepresenting the character of God. Jesus, who passes every test, gives glory to God in all circumstances. Even the greatest leader can't lead us to the promised land- only Christ the rock, who gives us the living water of eternal life. Themes: Living water, Christ the rock of salvation, the heart of worship, testing God vs trusting God's provision.
This week we are continuing our Lenten journey through Windy Gap.
We are starting our Lenten journey up to Skull peak at Calvary. The road starts with danger. Jesus's journey after his baptism led immediately to temptation in the wilderness. When we start this journey, we too will be tempted. The fear of snakes threatens to dissuade us from continuing upward and miss the Sunrise vista. Satan tries to twist God's word and get us off of the correct path. He looks for weaknesses, cracks, and footholds to take advantage of us. Like a lion, he is an opportunist. But God has given us his truth and power by which we can overcome the serpent and get through the pass.