Camp Hazeroth

Read Numbers 12. (No seriously, do it.)

I'm going to focus today on verses 3-8 or "the convo with God". Miriam and Aaron's doubt is understandable. We have all felt it at one time or another: "Why does God seem to favor that person? (and not me...)." When we see another walking closely with God, we feel like the one being slighted. We feel, as Aaron and Miriam, "Doesn't he also speak through us?"

Even as I write this, I wish for the relationship that God describes to have with Moses, "I speak to him intimately, in person". Wow. I want that.

But as I say this, I know that God's path for me is far bigger than my simple desires. His plan for all of creation comes down to details. In my case, it requires for me to learn to connect with God. This would never happen if he just showed himself and made it easy.

We are to admire those around us who have a closer walk with God and strive to be like them. As simple as this may sound, it can be difficult...especially in times when our personal prayer life seems weak.

Of course, when we see ourselves going down the wrong path, we are given the grace and forgiveness granted by Jesus, the Christ. In this story, it is shown by both Moses and God. In verse 11, Aaron pleads with Moses because God has turned her into a leper, "Please, my master, please don't come down so hard on us for this foolish and thoughtless sin."

And Moses is so cool. He prays on behalf of Miriam - not condemns, not says "Ha! That's what you get!" He prays for her healing.

And God, even cooler, turns the whole thing into a teaching moment. Basically, he tells them to check their laws (i.e. His Laws) and see what to do. After being quarantined for a week, she is fine and readmitted to camp.

I find it interesting that even in this Old Testament story, we get a glimpse of the New Testament God. I suppose that's because it is us who changed...at least our perception of God. But isn't that how it always is? God doesn't change, merely our understanding of him does.