In Joshua 1, we read the story of the Hebrew people beginning the process of entering the Promised Land. They have been wandering in the wilderness for decades. People have been born in the wilderness, people have died. Generations have passed since the exodus from Egypt. But they have come to the place where they are ready to enter the land. The crossing of the Jordan River doesn’t come until chapter 3. But here comes the command of the Lord to make the preparations, to live in a faithful way, and ultimately to be strong and courageous in the Lord. What happens with the crossing, though, when it does take place is that the people don’t leave the wilderness behind. It becomes a part of the story of the Jewish people through to this day- “Remember when we were slaves in Egypt and we were led to the Promised Land.” And at the same time, the Promised Land ahead of them was with the Hebrew people during the wandering in the wilderness.
There are crossings over in all of our lives – whether it is a crossing over through Baptism, a transition in life, a new venture, or even something like a loss. And in all of those crossings, we maintain elements of both sides of the “river” – they stick with us. But as we cross, the words here in Joshua 1 are so very true…
Be strong and courageous; for you shall put this people in possession of the land that I swore to their ancestors to give them. Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to act in accordance with all the law that my servant Moses commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, so that you may be successful wherever you go. This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth; you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to act in accordance with all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall be successful. I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”