9The anger of the Lord burned against them, and he left them.
10When the cloud lifted from above the tent, Miriam’s skin was leprous—it became as white as snow. Aaron turned toward her and saw that she had a defiling skin disease,
- P68
11and he said to Moses, "Please, my lord, I ask you not to hold against us the sin we have so foolishly committed. - P68
13So Moses cried out to the Lord, "Please, God, heal her!"
14The Lord replied to Moses, "If her father had spit in her face, would she not have been in disgrace for seven days? Confine her outside the camp for seven days; after that she can be brought back." - P69
When the Lord’s presence lifts, Miriam is left with a severe skin disease that renders her ceremonially unclean. In a moment of desperation, Aaron turns to Moses and pleads for mercy, acknowledging their wrongdoing in criticizing Moses. This scene highlights the danger of familiarity breeding contempt. - P70
Proximity to leadership or spiritual authority can sometimes cause us to lose sight of God’s anointing on others. Despite their being siblings, Moses had a special calling from God, and Aaron and Miriam’s disregard for this fact led to serious consequences. Yet, here we also see the power of humility and repentance. - P70
True restoration begins with recognizing our sin, confessing it, and seeking forgiveness. - P70
This act of humility is crucial for healing broken relationships—with God and with others. - P70
When Aaron pleads for mercy, Moses responds with compassion and intercedes for Miriam’s healing. God answers Moses’s prayer but requires that Miriam be isolated outside the camp for seven days in line with the ceremonial laws previously given to Moses. This period of isolation causes the entire Israelite community to pause their journey until she is restored. - P70
Sin has far-reaching consequences, especially when leadership is involved. - P70
Personal failures can impact an entire community. But repentance and intercession are also powerful in bringing about restoration. - P70
Moses cares about reconciliation between God and His people, and his intercession stands in the gap for others, even those who have wronged him.
Merciful Father, I come before You, acknowledging that I have not always honored others as I should. - P71
Thank you for Your patience with me. Teach me to walk in humility, confess my wrongs, and seek forgiveness when needed. In Your Son’s name, amen. - P71
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