What is a City of Refuge? In the time of Joshua, as is true today, revenge is something that may come too easily. Revenge is never satisfied. It is an escalating spiral like a tornado encompassing more and more until the beginning point can no longer be found. Where can that cycle of revenge be stopped, or at least slowed to introduce justice? God recognized a need for Cities of Refuge, he lead Joshua to establish cities, where unintentional killers could flee for justice, a refuge from revenge.
As I read lesson 7 I tried to understand my need for a City of Refuge. What I can easily understand is how emotions can escalate to a place where everyone is hurt. A simple example for me is dealing with my two year old grandson Tanner. Two year olds wear their emotions close to the surface, as do 57 year old grandmothers after a long day. What I have had to relearn is how my reaction to Tanner can either calm or escalate a situation. If I am too judgmental or firm as I correct Tanner I can see his eyes flare and his little shoulders stiffen and I know we are into a battle of wills that neither of us can win. What we both need then is a city of refuge. A place where time is taken to calm ourselves, look at the facts and take the appropriate action. When we do this the outcome is always better. I do this best when I rely on my relationship with God to bring peace into my heart.
Where are the Cities of Refuge today? Do we still need them? I am fortunate to live in a country with a strong judicial system. I know there are places where are court systems do not do a fair job of representing the disadvantaged, and that there are wrongful convictions, but the system is there which with improvements will serve us all. We do have instances of revenge killings with gangs and especially in cases of drug dealing. All of these situations need to be improved as well. So what would be a City of Refuge today? A place without poverty and crime, a place of love and compassion, and a place that is free from addictions and disillusionment. Isn’t this an opportunity for those of us who have found the love of Christ and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to make a difference. How can we use ourselves and our churches as Cities of Refuge, refuge from oppression, pain and suffering, so others may feel the Peace of God? With faith, prayer and action I believe we can help others find that asylum in Christ.
Lesson 7–Cities of Refuge
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