Bibledoorajar: First on the Plains of Moab

     The first nation of God encamped on the plains of Moab and awaited the command to move into their God assigned land, Israel. It would be a land established with God driven boundaries. Meanwhile the standards surrounding the people numbered four. To the east was the standard of Judah which bore the figure of a lion. To the north was the standard of Dan which bore the figure of an eagle. To the west was the standard of Ephraim which bore the figure of an ox and to the south Reuben which bore the figure of a man. And of course, most importantly of all was the Shekinah glory in their midst in the tabernacle. A Bible reader can find these symbols in other biblical writings such as Ezekiel and Revelation and they are intricately involved to describe the power of God and His involvement with His creation. God's involvement with His creation spans from east to west and north to south.
     The power of God as shown in this first nation would bring forth another first. That of God coming to earth in Bethlehem of Israel. His birth would lead to many more firsts. The first New Testament miracle. The first New Testament healing. The first calling of the disciples by Jesus. The first church meeting. The first time followers were called Christians (at Antioch). The first call to preach the gospel to all the world sharing the love of Jesus. These are among the many firsts that Jesus would
inaugurate.

     These firsts are the real backdrop for the season of Christmas. We can enjoy the fun of the season never forgetting  the Power that moved among men to bring the good news; we can be a part of an Eternal nation and live with our God and Savior. As we await the command to move into that Land, let's determine to allow Him to sanctify and purify our lives. In so doing, we will have a much merrier Christmas and can sing the carols with much joy! 

"In Bethlehem, in Israel
This blessed Babe was born
And laid within a manger
Upon this blessed morn
The which His Mother Mary
Did nothing take in scorn
Oh tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
Oh tidings of comfort and joy."

As Mentioned in A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, 1843