A Journey Too Far – The Bronze Serpent
Written on August 15, 2007 – Numbers 21:4-9
We hear this story often during the Lenten season when we are called to repent and make reparations. In today’s citation we see the people who have tired of living a life of bare survival in the desert with only manna to eat. They long for the milk and honey which Yahweh has promised, and so they complain. Once again, Moses intercedes for them when Yahweh sends serpents to bite them. I am always amazed at this Old Testament image of God who is so compassionate in the New Testament. But what I like most is the fact that the cure is so similar to the disease. The bronze serpent made by Moses will heal those bitten by the living serpents.
Do I too often steer clear from something when the cure lies in my willingness to enter God’s plan?
Do I fear too much and trust too little?
Am I also stiff-necked?
Do I complain too much?
This is a great reading to contemplate when examining my conscience. It reminds me that I am cared for and given all that I need. It reminds me that God is mysterious but indeed good.
For a quick study on the Bronze Serpent go to http://www.keyway.ca/htm2000/20001212.htm
Also see the posting on this blog for December 3, 2011: Worn Out
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