Participation Is More Important Than Completion
BRD REFLECTIONS:
Deuteronomy 32 and Psalm 134 (NIV)
(Victor Chan, PTM for Pastoral Care Ministry)
READ:
As I read Deuteronomy 32, verses 48 to 52 stood out for me.
OBSERVE:
Deuteronomy 32:48 – 52 is a record of the conversation where God revealed to Moses his impending death and His firm decision to deny Moses entry into the Promised Land. Moses was denied entry into the Promised Land because he disobeyed and sinned against God. He failed to give God all glory at Meribah Kadesh (Num. 20:1 – 12 & Num. 27:12 – 14). Moses’ offense at Meribah Kadesh was not so much an act of rebellion, but impatience. As a result, Moses faced the consequences of his actions. Even though he was denied entry, God granted Moses a glimpse of the Promised Land.
We can see God’s holiness, impartiality and sense of justice here. Just because Moses was His chosen leader to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses, like us, must still face the consequences of his actions. This resulted in him not being able to enjoy the fruits of his labor.
But God was also gracious, loving, compassionate, merciful and faithful. God allowed Moses to see the Promised Land and granted him the assurance of the coming fulfillment of His promise. Moses had a “taste” of the anticipated Promised Land from afar. In a way, Moses experienced the fulfillment of God’s calling for him in his life. He knew God’s faithfulness.
APPLY:
When I first read this passage, I felt very sorry for Moses. Moses did everything that God commanded him. But because of one mistake, he was denied entry into the Promised Land. Although Scripture was silent about Moses’ feelings, if I were Moses, I would be very frustrated and argue that it was unfair. I would probably make my defense before God.
However, when I re-read it with a spiritual lens, I saw God’s compassion and grace for Moses. Despite Moses’ lapse, God graciously allowed Moses to catch a glimpse of the Promised Land, at the culmination of his earthly walk with God. Yes, Moses was denied entry into the Promised Land but he enjoyed intimacy with God. I believe the view from that mountain top led Moses down the memory lane of the adventures that he had with God. With God, Moses witnessed the impossible become possible. God, in His grace, allowed Moses to participate in His plans.
I wonder am I always so focused and anxious about completing what I begin ? This is especially when I am doing God’s work? My focus can lead me to take short-cuts or employ other means which may not be pleasing to God. I should remember that it is by the grace of God, I am allowed to participate in His plans. Therefore, I should always wait upon Him, obey and follow His instructions.
DO:
I will be faithful in obeying and following God’s plan. I will remember that it is always by the grace of God that I am allowed to participate in what God has begun.
PRAY:
Father God, Thank You for allowing me to participate in Your plans. Help me to faithfully follow and obey You in all that I do. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
