Deuteronomy 24 - Steve Wiggins Daily Devotional

“Be careful in a case of infectious skin disease, following carefully everything the Levitical priests instruct you to do. Be careful to do as I have commanded them. Remember what the L_rd your G_d did to Miriam on the Journey after you left Egypt.” Deuteronomy 24: 8-9

On a causal fly-over, today’s passage could be interpreted in a number of ways. But because the L_rd included a reference to Miram, we have a better understanding as to what He was trying to communicate. Let’s revisit the story of Miriam’s leprosy.

“When the two of them (Aaron & Miriam) came forward, the L_rd said, ‘Listen to what I say: If there is a prophet among you from the L_rd, I make myself known to him in a vision; I speak to him in a dream. Not so, with My servant Moses; he is faithful in all My household. I speak with him directly, openly, and not in riddles; he sees the form of the L_rd. So why were you not afraid to speak against My servant, Moses?’ The L_rd’s anger burned against them, and He left. As the cloud moved away from the tent, Miriam’s skin suddenly became diseased, as white as snow.” Numbers 12: 5b-10a

Here’s the scenario: Miriam and Aaron were Moses’ elder siblings. Aaron was first born, so it was his “birthright” to lead their family, spiritually. Miriam was the older sister who had watched-over the floating basket, containing baby Moses.

Given their elder status and their histories of caring for Moses, it seems logical that they would be compelled to “lead” him. Familiarity breeds contempt. In fact, it was their family relation to Moses, which presumed their right to criticize his decisions.

Problem: Moses was G_d’s servant, doing what the L_rd directed him to do. Questioning Moses meant questioning G_d.

Our present-day application is simple. When you sin against G_d, by questioning His institution of leadership and/or His faithful leaders, watch out! The L_rd may allow you to contract some form of “leprosy”, either actual or metaphorical. G_d will use your “disease”, to drive you to submit to the comfort, care & direction of the very ministers you criticized.

Blessings,
~Steve Wiggins, Associate Leader, Worship Leader
Shuvah Yisrael
Daily Devotional, Sunday, July 6, 2014