A Reward of Sorts

Scripture: And Joshua blessed him, and gave Hebron to Caleb the son of Jephunneh as an inheritance. Hebron therefore became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite to this day, because he wholly followed the Lord God of Israel. Joshua 14:13-14

Observation: Over 45 years prior to this passage, Israel had sent twelve spies to investigate Canaan. Two gave good reports, but 10 were afraid, and as a result the people refused to take the land, and God then required them to wander the wilderness until that generation was dead. The two men who placed their faith in God were Joshua and Caleb. As a reward, Joshua becomes the heir of Moses as the leader of the people when they finally enter the land, and Caleb is offered his choice of any city from the inheritance. He chooses Hebron.

Hebron is NOT just 'any' city! This is, in fact, where Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah are buried!! In fact, prior to the invasion, this is the only place "owned" by Israel, as the cave and field of the patriarchs was legally and fully purchased by Abraham when he was a foreigner in the land. Thus the only toe-hold of land ownership in the Promised Land now passes from Abraham to Caleb.

Today, Hebron remains one of the important cities in the region, an economic center, and a place contested for its religious attachments, especially the cave of the patriarchs. This is a historically famous place, and it is given to Caleb due to his faith. In the end, then, the rewards of faith given to Joshua and Caleb are immense. Joshua becomes the famous leader and prophet who leads the entire nation, and Caleb becomes the owner of a city that is remembered for all time.

Application: These are the blessings of the Lord ... great responsibility ... maybe not what I would seek. Joshua and Caleb are forever honored, but in their time they were put to work in the name for the Lord for certain. They lead in battle and in commerce. They did not see a great deal of luxurious rest. They ... did a lot.

I tend to think of comfort when I consider heavenly blessing. Perhaps I should think of good work to be done. I should see that a significant task - and the ability to do it - are true blessing. And the reward for faithful service is ... more service to be done.

Prayer: Lord, I am here to do your work this day. May I serve you well, and thus be given more to do tomorrow. Thank you, my Lord, for your blessings each day. Amen.