Joshua 20Even though the objective of the Israelites was to occupy the promised land as quickly as possible, no human right was to be set aside. The cities of refuge were a way of preserving life, protecting the accused until justice could be achieved. The phrase “till he stood before the congregation” implied that the cities were not simply a “get out of jail free card.” Human life is precious, and justice would require that a murderer be executed. But there had to be a check against feuding.
When we are about doing the mission we have been given, we need to be considerate of those we are trying to reach. Our zeal to win them to Christ should not be an excuse for breaking the rules. The end does not justify the means.
LORD, make us people who abide by the rules of fair play, so that those we share your gospel with are convinced of our integrity.
Devotions 