The crossing of the Jordan symbolizes many things for us and for the Israelites. For the Israelites it symbolized them coming from wilderness to the land of milk and honey, from wandering to rest, from mana to the fruit of the land, from desert, defeat, and disobedience, to life and freedom.

Memorial Day, a day we remember those who served and lost their lives for our country. Fireworks on the 4th of July, a remembrance of our freedom. Trophies, a symbol of a victory. Twelve stones stacked at Gilgal, a remembrance of the whole nation of Israel crossing the Jordan on dry ground to enter the Promised Land. 

Obedience is rarely easy, partly because we lack heavenly perspective and our human desire to be in control is so strong; we frequently think our plans are better. 

There once was a time when seatbelts were not required. Every parent was very good at tossing up their right arm swiftly if they needed to brake quickly; the purpose of the arm block was to hold everything in place that might be moving forward from behind.

Imagine the Israelites watching the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant approaching the river; nothing was happening; the turbulent waters were not slowing at all. It wasn’t until the priest stepped into the water that the miracle took place.