“This oath you made…will not be binding…unless, when we enter the land, you have tied this scarlet cord in the window…As for those who are in the house with you, their blood will be on our head if a hand is laid on them” Joshua 2:17-19.
This is a fascinating story in history prior to the defeat of Jericho. Rahab was an innkeeper and prostitute who lived within the city gates. A representation of men from the Israelites were sent in to spy on what would be their next conquest. Rahab had heard of the miracles God performed on their behalf and she was overcome with fear. She knew that not only was the enemy getting ready to advance against her home, but that they had the Lord on their side. ‘When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear and everyone’s courage failed…’ Joshua 2:11. Because she hid and protected them from her leaders when they approached her home, she asked for protection in return. They agreed that when they attacked she and her family within her home would be protected if she hung a scarlet cord in the window. The scarlet cord is what ultimately saved her family. They made a promise that as long as she remained where the scarlet cord hung, they would take responsibility for any suffering.
I remember sitting in the doctor’s office with Mother and Daddy when they diagnosed him with cancer. I knew I had to make the call to my other sisters, a call that many of you have also had to make. I still remember my dad’s face when he was told. He had this strange sense of peace, smiled and said ‘Really?’ It’s like he heard the news but wasn’t affected by the news at the moment. Mother sat there quietly and took in the reality with quiet concentration. There was no hysteria…no anger...just a moment of taking it all in. But I remember calling Bruce and I was more like Rahab… ‘when I heard of it, my heart melted in fear and courage failed.’ You see, Mother and Daddy had spent their entire life with the scarlet cord hanging in the window. Throughout their marriage they looked to God for everything, believing in His faithfulness in all things. They had seen miracles performed…had received comfort and peace extended when chaos was around them. They understood what it was like to walk under the covenant of a Savior who had already spilled His blood for us. Jesus Christ was their scarlet cord who was woven through the fabrics of their lives. Their spiritual legacy has been one of the greatest gifts to both my generation and the generation of my children.
Because of what Christ did on the cross we each have that promise of protection, security and eternal love. Because of Jesus, we can bear whatever cross this world throws at us because this world is not our home. We are residents of a future city where we will know His face fully, abide in His mansion and continuously experience His presence. But until then, hang your scarlet cord in the window so everyone will know that Jesus Christ is our life and He is coming back!
“And she tied the scarlet cord in the window.” Joshua 2:21
No comments:
Post a Comment