In Joshua 5:9, we read the words from the LORD to Joshua: “Today I have rolled away from you the disgrace of Egypt.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 tells us “if anyone is in Christ, that person is part of the new creation.”
These two passages are the scriptures for Sunday. And yes, there is a thread. In the book of Joshua, Moses has died and Joshua is the new leader. He has led them in the Promised Land. No longer do they have to rely on manna in the desert. They can now enjoy the fruits of their labor in their homeland.
In 2 Corinthians 5, we are a new creation. The old things no longer matter. In other words, while our past is important, it doesn’t define us. The grace and love Jesus wraps us in defines us. We are a new creation!
And the Hebrews in the Promised Land are not defined by their disgrace, but by God’s grace and care. The disgrace of their past under Pharaoh’s iron fist and the unforgiving desert no longer define them. Just as the old things that may haunt us do not define us.
Our LORD Jesus reconciles us to God the Creator. That is what defines us. And that, beloved, is Good News.
Christ’s Peace,
Pastor T. Wes