May 14: The "Plan B" of the City of Refuge

May 14: The "Plan B" of the City of Refuge

Scripture: "These six cities shall be for refuge... that anyone who kills a person accidentally may flee there." — Numbers 35:15

In the Old Testament, God provided the "Cities of Refuge" as a "Plan B" for those who were caught in "unintended consequences." If someone accidentally caused a death, they could "flee" to a city where they would be "safe from the avenger." This was a "shadow" of the "Refuge" we have in Christ.

The "Truth of the Refuge" is that God is "just" but also "merciful." He knows that we often "stumble" and cause "collateral damage" in our lives. His "Plan B" is a "Safe Space" where we can "find mercy and grace." He is our "Strong Tower" into which the "righteous run and are safe."

"Fleeing to the City" required "action." The "gate was always open," but the "person had to run." In the same way, we must "actively choose" to take refuge in Christ. We must "leave behind" the "guilt" and the "accusations" and "hide ourselves" in Him. This is the "Plan B" of "Spiritual Asylum."

Are you "running" from the "avenger" of your past today? Flee to the City. Christ is your "Refuge." In Him, there is no "condemnation." You are "safe" under the "shadow of His wings." Let the Truth of His "protective Love" give you the "security" you need to keep moving forward.

Reflection Questions:

1. What "unintended consequence" or "past mistake" is "chasing" me today?
2. Am I "actively taking refuge" in Christ, or am I trying to "defend myself"?
3. How can I be a "City of Refuge" for someone else who is "hurting" today?

Source: Inspired by Patriarchs and Prophets, Ellen G. White; "The Cities of Refuge" sermon by John Bradshaw.