The Stations of the Cross (Num. 33)

This is a fitting text for us to consider at the end of Easter Sunday, because our text begins with Israel setting out from Egypt “on the day after the Passover.” While the Egyptians are burying their firstborn – while the gods of Egypt are licking their wounds – the people of God go forth triumphantly.

Even so, we are the people of God who go forth in the power of the resurrection of Jesus. Last time we looked at how Gad and Reuben were called to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Joshua. Tonight, we reflect on the triumph of God over the powers of sin, death, and the devil, nd we consider what it means for us – what it means for those who would follow Jesus.

What do the stages of Israel’s journey teach us?

• They teach us first, to remember what God has done in Jesus to redeem us.

• They teach us second, to bear the cross with patience.

• They teach us third, to trust that God will bring safely us across the Jordan, into our glorious inheritance!