August 18 2023
I gave you a land on which you had not laboured, and towns that you had not built, and you live in them; you eat the fruit of vineyards and olive groves that you did not plant.
From Joshua 24:1-13, NRSV
Joshua was by now an old man, and when he knew that his death was drawing near, he gathered together all the leaders of Israel and spoke to them in God’s name. In his final speech, he reminded them very powerfully of the many great deeds that God had done for them throughout their history. He made it clear that God’s love and care had been constant and abundant. Joshua then pointed out that the people were to benefit from the labours of others – something for which they should be especially grateful. They were to enter the Promised Land where they would straight away have homes and food and comfort.
- Did the Israelites deserve all that they had received and were to benefit from?
- Is there anything we have to do to deserve God’s love and mercy?
Recall your own history and give thanks for the people who have worked hard to provide for you.
