S3 E 211: Joshua, Jericho and the Macy's Day Parade

ONE DAY CLOSER with Mark & Dave

Today we are going to attempt to compare two pictures or stories, one from years gone by and one that is most recent and occurs every year, to see if we can wring any more drops of practical wisdom from the story of Joshua at the walls of Jericho, that could change our lives for the better in the new year.

The story of Joshua leading the Israelites to bring down the walls of Jericho is a powerful account that demonstrates the faithfulness and might of the Lord, AND the faithfulness and courage He requires of His servants. You can find the story in Joshua 6:1-22.

In his youth, Joshua was a servant to Moses. His entire life he had served side by side Mose, as his number two, faithful, loyal and true. He was there to witness the receipt of the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai and He was one of the twelve spies sent into Canaan to spy out the land of Promise. And before Mose died, he declared Joshua as his successor with the mission being to finish what God and Moses started…get to the Promise Land.

Jericho is the first city the Israelites would have come to after crossing the Jordan into Canaan, so naturally, it had to be conquered first.

Some might say God gave Joshua “very specific” instructions on what to do to cause the walls of Jericho to collapse. I would argue that God gave him very bizarre instructions…instructions that to fully follow…would require you to surrender all you thought you knew about military dominance, leadership, pride, dreams of valiantly leading a charge on a mighty city…at the Jordan. Instructions that would cause you to reevaluate your level or definition of FAITH.
“On the seventh day, they marched around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets. When you hear them sound a long blast on the trumpets, have the whole army give a loud shout; then the wall of the city will collapse and the army will go up, everyone straight in” (Joshua 6:4-5, 20).

So what are we missing?

Ah yes. A leader for the band. To be truthful, there are TWO things missing.

Where would we look today to find a man worthy enough to lead? One that has spent his entire life serving another who was serving the people of their nation and taking instruction only from God. Who today is qualified? Biden? General Milk Toast Milley? Any other living Commanders come to mind? How about The Pope? Any Bishops or Cardinals come to mind?

Remember. We are looking for someone like Joshua, filled with the spirit of wisdom (Deuteronomy 34:9), who is faithful, loyal, true, strong and courageous. (Deuteronomy 31:7, 8, 23, Joshua 1:6,7,9)

Billy Graham comes to mind but he, like Moses has already crossed over.

What was the second thing missing?

The Ark of the Covenant. It was a central element of the tabernacle and later the temple in ancient Israel, symbolizing God's presence and covenant with the Israelites. But that’s Old Testament teaching right? What about the New Covenant?

The anticipation of this covenant pushes the story forward into the pages of the New Testament, where we are introduced to Jesus (Matt. 26:26-29; Luke 22:19-22).

Aren’t all BELIEVERS in CHRIST considered to be the BODY OF CHRIST? Aren’t we also to be filled with the Holy Spirit, His Holy Word, with Power and Authority to speak truth into darkness. Have we not been given the Armor of God mentioned in Ephesians 6.

You can be that influencer in your circle of friends. Like Joshua, let your faith in God SHOW. Be Strong and Courageous in ALL circumstances. Don’t be afraid to Lead. Simply spend more time with God…discern His Voice, urgings and callings, even if they sound a bit crazy.

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