SUMMARY: True refuge
OVERVIEW: Cities of refuge were places people could flee if they accidentally killed someone to receive a fair trial. Despite our guilt, Jesus welcomes us and offers shelter.
BIG IDEA: God welcomes all.
KEY VERSE: Joshua 20:9 (commentary)
These cities were set apart for all the Israelites as well as the foreigners living among them. Anyone who accidentally killed another person could take refuge in one of these cities. In this way, they could escape being killed in revenge prior to standing trial before the local assembly.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
The refuge I offer is eternal and complete. I offer forgiveness of your sin, an eternal home, and my constant presence. Come to me today with your doubts. Come to me with your fears. Come to me with your questions and when you feel chaotic and confused. Come to me with your praise and your joy and your unbridled enthusiasm. Come to me with tears of laughter, pain, sorrow or joy. Come to me when others mock you or when they lose confidence in you. Come to me at all times and in all situations.
I always have been and always will be your constant source of hope. Embrace that truth and hide it deep in your soul. But let it sprout and become the catalyst that moves you to invite others to me. Bring them with you. Tell them about me. Help them know I love them and offer a place for them, too.
NEXT STEP
Rest in the presence of Jesus. Stop trying to perform and remember Jesus offers rest. Remind someone who needs to rediscover that Jesus invites them to rest.
LYRIC VIDEO