"...Then they are to admit him into their city and give him a place to live with them. If the avenger of blood pursues him, they must not surrender the one accused, because he killed his neighbor unintentionally and without malice aforethought." Joshua 20:4-5 (NIV)
See, I've been reading the book of Joshua and around a month ago I was reading how the Israelites took over and conquered a lot of cities. I mean, a LOT of cities and killed even more people. And I remember feeling uncomfortable reading it and asking God why it was necessary to have all those people killed. I asked my discipler, Ate Rhods, about this and she told me to just keep on reading the book of Joshua because she's sure that one of the later chapters will help me understand my question. She also told me to remember that no matter what happens God is a holy God.
Although God has somehow answered my question as to why He has to eliminate a lot of people, a lot of innocent people too, He has further answered me through this chapter.
I was reminded of just how many the Israelites were. I mean, there were 12 tribes. Of course God would have to get the lands of other people for them. Each tribe has plenty of families, and each of that family has a family of its own and so forth. I kind of understood that. But then in chapter 20, the lands were also used to keep refugees safe. Those who committed crimes unintentionally would be taken in in those nations until those who are seeking vengeance would leave or until the high priest who took them in at that time would pass on.
And I was just reminded that though God is a holy God, He is also a merciful God. Yes we are sinners, there's no doubt about that. But here's what He's telling us - what He's telling me: I know you've done plenty of wrong things in your life, but you can turn to Me. You don't have to go through this alone. It's just so encouraging for me since I feel like I'm doing something wrong and I feel guilty about it. This just assured me that God is not only my Lord, He is also my Heavenly Father and He will do everything to protect me because He loves me and wants only the best for me.
I just wanted to share this with everyone out there who feel like their mistakes are unforgivable. There's hope. There is a God.
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