Moses leads the people out of Egypt and to the River Jordan. At the banks of the Jordan, he realizes that he will not cross the river himself. He has done all he can, to prepare them. But, he cannot take this last step with them. He gives them final instructions. He shares with them what God has told him. He says, "It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed."
I have visited with several of the graduating students. I have heard their anxiety (understandable anxiety) at this next stage in their lives. I do not mean to diminish the challenges they face, but I would offer them the assurance Moses offered the children of Israel. "It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed."
Other conversations this week have addresses personal struggles and injuries to psyche. I do what I can, but I also know my limits and know when it is time for my pastoral care visits to be supplemented with work with a counselor or therapist. The promise I offer to those beginning to examine their lives and it darker corners is Moses' words: "It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed."
If we only read Joshua, we would think that the Israelites cross the Jordan and everything is perfect. When we read I & II Chronicles, we see that there were setbacks and disappointments. Both depictions are accurate - Chronicles speaks of the events; Joshua witnesses to the power of faith.
The days ahead may have many challenges. They may be filled with trials and disappointments. Looking at them through the eyes of faith we can stand firm and overcome whatever comes. "It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed."
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