What Does It Mean?

Then the LORD gave these instructions to Moses and Aaron: “When the Israelites set up camp, each tribe will be assigned its own area. The tribal divisions will camp beneath their family banners on all four sides of the Tabernacle, but at some distance from it. [Numbers 2.1-2]

It must have been some sight to see Israel move about in the wilderness.

Organization was key. Order was essential. Leadership was critical. Rules were necessary. And, cooperation was imperative.

In this environment, it is easy to see why the Law was necessary. History has proven over and again that large groups of people left to themselves and without God eventually disintegrate. In fact, even with the Law governing Israel, we still see rebellion.

The interesting thing about this is that Israel chose their fate in the wilderness. They chose that God not speak directly to them. They chose to have a chain of leadership beginning with Moses as he heard from God.

How does this relate to us today? What does it mean? It is not ironic that through the redemption provided in Christ, His followers are no longer bound to the Law. Neither is it ironic then that Jesus imparted the Holy Spirit that each and every follower could have direct access to Almighty God. This is something to ponder...

Father, help me to grasp the fullness of the meaning of being in direct fellowship with You.