Written on Stones

Read Joshua 8:32-35. What is the meaning of the act described in these verses, and what should it say to us today?

Mount Ebal is mentioned only in Deuteronomy (11:29 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">Deut. 11:29 ; Deut. 27:4, 27:13 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">13) and in the book of Joshua (08:30 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">Josh. 8:30 , 08:33 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">33). Along with Gerizim, it was the site where the blessings and curses of the covenant were to be recited. More specifically, according to 11:29 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">Deuteronomy 11:29  and Deuteronomy 27:4, 27:13 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">13, it had to be the site of the curses. Here the Israelites were to stand on either side of the ark in the presence of the priests (08:33 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">Josh. 8:33 ). One group stood in front of Mount Ebal, the other in front of Mount Gerizim. Here they symbolically enacted the two possible ways of relating to the covenant. The sacrifices that were brought there pointed to Jesus, who took upon Himself all the curses of the covenant, so that all who believe in Him might enjoy its blessings (03:13 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">Gal. 3:13 , 05:21 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">2 Cor. 5:21 ).

Why was it necessary to write a copy of the covenant on a monument, visible to all? (See 04:31 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">Deut. 4:31 ; 06:12 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">Deut. 6:12 ; 08:11 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">Deut. 8:11 , 08:14 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">14; 17:38 &version=KJV&src=tools" target="_self">2 Kings 17:38 ; Ps. 78:7.)

We humans tend to be forgetful. We crowd the increasingly bewildering demands of everyday life into shorter and shorter segments of time. We inevitably forget things that do not recur with the same frequency or intensity. At every communion service, we have a special occasion to rededicate ourselves to the Lord and to renew our covenantal commitment. It would be good to perceive these opportunities not only as chances for individual re-consecration but also as occasions of corporate renewal of our allegiance to God. In an increasingly individualistic society, we must rediscover the power of belonging to a community that shares the same worldview, the same values and beliefs, and the same mission.

How easy do you find it, in the rush and hubbub of life, to forget the Lord and seek to do things in your own strength and power? Why is this so easy to do, especially when things are going well for you?