Not posted
Numbers 31:1
Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 2“Take full vengeance for the sons of Israel on the Midianites; afterward you will be gathered to your people.”
Moses learns that he is to die soon. God gives him one more task. The phrase “gathered to your people” refers to death. His people were Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and all His descendants.
Most of us don’t know when we are to die. How would we live if we knew our death was imminent? Would we be at peace or in a panic?
Moses’ last task was one of war. A challenging one. However, it would make the people safer. Therefore a selfless, heroic gesture. He wasn’t concerned about his approaching death. He wasn’t afraid about his readiness. He goes about his business.
We will have an end of life. Are we ready? If not, God has given a great offer of forgiveness, abundant life on earth and eternal life in heaven.
If our eternal destiny is settled, how do we live? Would we live differently if today was our last? Hopefully we are living in a way that is pleasing to The Lord, that our day wouldn’t be much different.
I think of the country song, “Live Like You Were Dying”. It has the message of going for the gusto. Don’t be too reserved. It has a bucket list type of message. That’s fine, but it seems self serving. Moses’ act was a difficult/selfless act which benefitted the people.
President Grant also did a sacrificial act at the end of his life. His family was in financial difficulties. He had a terminal illness of which he wouldn’t recover. He spent this last season finishing his memoirs. He did complete it. The sales from the book restored the family fortune. This was a noble last act.
Lord, help us to live our lives well. As if it were our last day, we would live it similar to most days