EXODUS 13
17 When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near. For God said, “Lest the people change their minds when they see war and return to Egypt.” 18 But God led the people around by the way of the wilderness toward the Red Sea. And the people of Israel went up out of the land of Egypt equipped for battle. 19 Moses took the bones of Joseph with him, for Joseph had made the sons of Israel solemnly swear, saying, “God will surely visit you, and you shall carry up my bones with you from here.” 20 And they moved on from Succoth and encamped at Etham, on the edge of the wilderness. 21 And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way, and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light, that they might travel by day and by night. 22 The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night did not depart from before the people. – Exodus 13:17-22
EXODUS 13 THE LONGER WAY TOWARDS THE WILDERNESS
A poem by ILMA inspired by these verses
After the Egyptians released the Israelites, God led his people
He told them to take the long route towards the Red Sea
This will prevent them from witnessing the Philistines’ wars
God didn’t want them to get discouraged and go back to Egypt
The Lord provided them with the pillar of cloud during the day
And at night, a pillar of fire covered them so they can see in the dark
They also took Joseph’s bones with them as his sons swore to him
They moved from Succoth and encamped in the wilderness at Etham.
The Lord didn’t lead the Israelites towards the easy and faster way, but towards the wilderness. He didn’t want them to witness the terrible wars in the land of the Philistines for it might discourage them and lead them back to Egypt. Isn’t this very true to us humans? When we experience conflicts and adversities, we back out and look for an easier way out. In the long journey, God never left them. He provided pillars of cloud and fire to ensure they are provided and protected.
The Israelites also brought with them Joseph’s bone as a fulfilment of his request to be out of Egypt too when God visits them.
REFLECTION
- Why isn’t the shorter way always the best option when following a direction?
