Dialogues Between God and Biblical Characters
Imaginative Vignettes
by
Daniel R. Seagren
Previous Conversations More Conversations
Conversations with . . .
Rebekah Esau Jacob Joseph Judah Miriam A Princess Moses Pharaoh Jethro Aaron Nadab and Abihu Bezalel A Leper Balaam A Priest Joshua Rahab 12 Tribes Achan A Conversation With Rebekah
Genesis 24
Rebekah. That's a pretty name.
Thank you my Lord.
How do you know me?
My family worships You.
And you do as well.
I do.
Is that why you responded so well to the servant?
I went to the well to draw water. I saw him resting there.
You didn't speak to him?
Not really. I simply filled my water jar.
He asked you for a drink?
He did. That was the proper thing to do.
And you watered his camels as well.
I did. No problem.
Then he asked you who you were?
I said my father was Bethuel the son of Nahor and Milcah.
He knew who Bethuel was?
His face lit up and he told me he was Abraham's servant.
And you knew who Abraham was?
Of course.
Did you know why he was there?
Not at first. But he quickly let me know.
How?
He told me that he prayed if a young woman came to the well
and offered my men and me a drink, he would know she was the one.
Wasn't that a bit strange?
I didn't think so. When a man prays, I am impressed.
So then he knew you were the right person.
Apparently. I was the answer to His prayer.
You then went willingly with the servant and his men?
I had the blessing of my family and we began the long journey.
Alone?
No. My young women went with me. When we got closer,
I saw a young man approaching us. We were married shortly after that.
Good. Issac married well.
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A Conversation with Esau
Genesis 27
Hey, God. What's up?
Not too much. I just wanted to have a little chat with you.
Why with me?
Because we haven't had many conversations.
I have had lots of conversations with my father, Isaac.
I know. He and I are on pretty good terms.
Your favorite, right?
Esau, I don't have favorites.
That's good.
Playing favorites isn't a very good idea.
Yeah, You are right.
You have a pretty good idea what playing favorites is, don't you?
I do. A real good idea. My mother favors my brother
And your father favors you.
That's an understatement.
This has been going on for a long time.
Since we were born. From day one.
You are twins so you should have been treated equally.
Of course. But that is not what happened.
I am sorry.
No problem. We survived.
Tell me about the blessing.
Oh, that. At first I was angry. How could a brother do that?
Brothers can be troublesome. Remember Cain and Abel?
Yeah. But that was a long time ago. My father really laid it on.
He said to Jacob: 'God will bless you, my son . . . nations will bow down to you.'
Isaac thought he was blessing you . . .
Jacob supplanted me but it was his mother's idea.
You demanded that Issac bless you because Jacob cheated you twice.
You knew that?
I did. He said you would live by the power of your sword and that
you would be your brother's slave.
I was so angry I vowed I'd kill Jacob when our father died.
But you didn't. You reconciled with him.
Well, sort of. I'm not sure we ever reconciled. Gotta run.
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A Conversation with Jacob
Genesis 32:1-8; 33:1-16; 35:16-19
I understand you had a conversation with your twin brother.
I was scared out of my wits.
You thought he would kill you as he threatened.
I did so I was prepared.
You were going to bribe him.
Not really. I offered him some gifts.
You had some trouble with your Uncle Laban, right?
Right. He was a devious ol' soul.
It was worth it for Rebekah wasn't it?
It sure was. She's a jewel.
Do you remember when you climbed the ladder?
How could I forget. What a dream.
Do you remember when I spoke to you?
I do. You talked about my descendants and how
they would be spread over the earth. Very much
like what You promised my grandfather.
Exactly. You are the third in line from Abraham and
this is just the beginning.
When I awoke I was frightened. That ladder in my dream
must have gone up to heaven. I was on holy ground.
I remember when you poured olive oil on that rock
you used as a pillow and dedicated it to Me. You called it Bethel.
I did promise that if You would go with me
You would be my God.
You also promised to give back a tenth of everything I give you.
And I did.
One more thing. Only one of your sons is destined to carry on your name.
That could be difficult. I have a lot of sons now. Besides, I
have some perplexing problems between my wives.
I know. Rachael was very jealous of Leah who had seven sons.
But I wanted a son with Rachael to be my heir.
Jacob, you can leave that up to Me.
Yes, Lord, I'm sure You will make it possible. You always do.
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A Conversation with Joseph
Genesis 37:12-36; 39:1-23; 41:37-50
Joseph, do you remember that colorful coat you had?
Do I remember? I will never forget. Never
Good. Now that you have risen to the top of Pharaoh's kingdom,
I want to make sure you don't forget your past.
Don't worry. It is quite indelible.
Good. You have had some excellent experiences
and some not so good.
Actually Lord, these have been invaluable, all of them.
Even being thrown in an empty well and then sold as a slave.
Now you have rescued your family from an awful famine.
Yes, that was an eye opener. When my father held back his youngest,
it gave me a chance to even the score a little.
Did it work that way?
Yes and no. At first I thought it was rather clever
but later on I began to doubt the wisdom of it.
Helping your family was a noble thing to do.
I couldn't do otherwise. Sure, I enjoyed my nobility
but I loved my family.
What about Pharaoh's wife?
She was a beautiful woman, charming but unhappy.
Unhappy?
Well, maybe more than that. Should I say unfulfilled?
In her marriage?
Yes. But it was more. She had everything a woman could want
but she wanted more.
How did you feel when she set you up??
I was devastated. It was so untrue. Naturally she had an advantage
and the Pharaoh believed her.
Did you think you'd ever be set free?
I was beginning to doubt it. Being dethroned . . . maybe that's the
wrong word . . . but being incarcerated was indescribable.
Joseph, you handled it well. I am proud of you.
Thank You, my Lord. It was You who set me free.
That's My mission: setting people free.
I cannot thank You enough, my Lord and my God!
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A Conversation with Judah
Genesis 49; 50:22-26
Judah, how many brothers do you have?
Many. Both brothers and should I say half-brothers.
Should I count them all?
They are all sons of your father.
True. They are my brothers: Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Zebulun, Issachar,
Dan, Gad, Napthtali, Joseph and Benjamin.
When your father Jacob blessed them,
he said some interesting things.
Predictions, right?
He had some uncanny insights.
But why was he so blunt? Here's is what he had to say to some of them:
You are a strong donkey.
You are a snake that bites the heel of a horse.
You will settle along the seashore.
Your help came from the God your father worshiped.
You are a fierce wolf.
What did he say to you?
Judah, you will be praised by your brothers . . .
Do you know what that means?
If true, it is preposterous.
Preposterous? Interesting. Please explain.
I am not sure I can. That my brothers will bow down to me? Never.
Don't be so sure.
What do You mean?
Maybe there is something significant ahead.
But why me?
Because only one of you can carry on the lineage.
I see. Maybe that is why Jacob chose me. But why not Joseph?
He has the learning, the prestige, the power.
That is true. But if you keep the faith, and pass it on to your sons,
the God of Abraham Isaac and Jacob and Judah will be blessed.
I understand even though I don't deserve the honor.
Remember, Judah, if God be for you, who can be against you?
Lord, help me not to forget.
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A Conversation with Miriam
Exodus 2:1-22
Miriam, did you know?
Know what?
That the baby boy who was rescued by the king's daughter would grow up in the king's household?
There is no way on earth I could have imagined that.
When the baby was placed in the waterproofed basket,
what did you think?
I hoped for the best but I didn't know what would happen.
You watched from a distance . . .
Yes, but I also followed the basket until it got caught in the long grass.
You watched as the king's daughter rescued the baby?
Oh was I happy. She picked up the baby, held it tightly and I could see immediately she loved little Moses.
Then what?
I watched as the princess walked off. When she came close to where I was, I said hi. She smiled.
Then you asked her if you could get a Hebrew woman
to take care of the baby for her?
I did although I don't know why I thought of it.
You were really excited, weren't you?
Excited. And happy. My little brother was saved.
Then what did you do?
I ran all the way home to find my mother. I told her the whole story. When I told her I had offered to find someone to nurse and care for baby Moses, she agreed.
How did your mother react when you told her this?
She gasped. Then she cried. Finally she said, yes, yes, yes.
And you cried too.
We hugged, cried, laughed and cried some more.
Then you ran off to tell the princess?
I did. I ran all the way. When I found the princess, she was holding the baby, showing him off to everyone.
Miriam, did you know?
I know now. Thank You, thank You, thank You!
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A Conversation with a Princess
Exodus 2:1-10
Hello. You are Pharoah's daughter I understand.
I am. Who are You?
I am Moses' heavenly Father.
Heavenly father? Not his earthly father?
Yes, his heavenly Father.
I don't understand.
Moses comes from a special lineage.
I always knew that. He is a most unusual person.
Then I take it you are pleased that you adopted him.
Pleased? Much more than that. He is incredible. The best thing that ever happened to me.
I am glad to hear that. You are raising him well.
Thank you. We give him the best we have to offer.
Just as though he was your own son.
He is my son. My son Moses. I am so proud of him.
Wonderful. I want you to know that I have some great future plans for him.
You do? Like what?
I can't tell you now. Please keep this confidential.
I promise. I wouldn't betray him for anything.
Good. That's why I chose you.
You chose me?? Now I am confused.
Moses comes from a very special family.
I can tell. He is most unusual.
Miriam, his older sister, chose well.
I can't deny that.
And you did a remarkable thing in rescuing him.
I'd do it again in a minute.
I want to ask you a favor.
A favor? Of me? Why me?
Because you are very special as well: the king's daughter, attractive, kind, loving . . .
You flatter me.
I want you to continue doing exactly what you are doing.
That will be easy. He is so responsible, and wise for his age.
I want to thank you for all you are doing.
Moses. He is more than a Princess could ever hope for.
And his family is eternally grateful to you, Princess.
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A Conversation with Moses
Exodus 2:11-15; 3:1-15; 12:31-41
Moses, I understand your predicament.
You mean my killing that obnoxious Egyptian?
That yes, but I am having difficulty with your running away.
You mean fleeing to the desert?
I had a job for you do do in Egypt.
I know. I sure messed that up, didn't I?
Yes, you did. But we must move on.
Where?
Back to Egypt. It is time to get your people out of there.
Really? After all these years?
After all these years. I need you to help me.
Me? Help You. I'm sorry. I am no longer fit.
My plan is still intact. I want you to go to Pharaoh and tell him
to let My people go.
Are you serious? He is a scoundrel, unreasonable.
I know. But you speak his language.
I, I am no speaker. Use my brother Aaron.
No, you must do the job.
But how? They'll get their revenge.
No, I won't allow that. Vengeance is mine you know.
I know. So, what do we do?
What's that in your hand?
My walking stick. I'm getting old You know.
Throw it down!
Jumpin' lizards. I hate snakes.
Pick it up by the tail!
Oooh. My oh my. It turned back into a stick.
Now do you believe me? You'll be the spokesman. I'll do the rest.
Very well, let's do it.
That King is stubborn but he'll give in.
I'm sure glad You are in charge.
One more thing, Moses.
Yes?
You will lead them to the Promised Land but you won't enter.
I, understand. I, I, really do.
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A Conversation with Pharaoh
Exodus 14:5-31
Sir. Please, Pharaoh, can you spare a moment?
Who are You and where are You?
My name is Jehovah, the God of Moses.
Ah yes. I understand. He's a good man.
I am sorry he lost his temper.
I can understand why. I think Your people call it “righteous indignation.”
Yes. But murder is murder.
I agree. If he hadn't fled, I would have had to take action.
I suppose you know where he is.
I have an idea but decided not to pursue it.
Has that caused any friction in your Kingdom?
If it has it would be controlled.
Is there any chance Moses could return?
I doubt it. Time heals but it doesn't happen over night.
You no doubt know about his heritage?
Of course. It is more than a legend with us.
Then you are aware of his people?
I am providing this legend is the whole truth.
I assume you know he was adopted.
I do. By the Pharaoh's daughter. She really loved that lad.
Moses was well educated I understand.
You understand correctly. Hewas royally trained. In fact, he was known to be rather brilliant.
You have been blessed . . .
What do you mean blessed?
That's the expressed given to those who have My favor.
I understand. We have had two blessed foreigners, right?
Exactly. Joseph and Moses.
We are deeply indebted to both of them.
Do you ever wonder whether My people will return to their own land?
Many times. They have not always been treated well.
Have you read any of their writings? Their history?
Not really. I am sure there must be some copies around.
Maybe you should look into it. You'll find out more about Me then.
Thank You, Jehovah. I may do just that.
Good. Let's keep in touch.
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A Conversation with Jethro
Exodus 18
Jethro, I have a task for you.
For me? I don't understand.
You have been a good priest, loyal and faithful.
I have tried, maybe not always my best, however.
I think you have done well. You have kept My name alive out here in the wilderness.
It hasn't been easy. At times I have almost given up.
I know. But you didn't. One of Pharaoh's trusted men . . .
You mean Moses?
I do. In fit of anger he killed an Egyptian.
So I heard. Now he is a fugitive I suppose.
Yes. He fled for his life. He's heading out here in the desert.
Oh oh, He won't like it here.
This is where you come in. I want you to welcome him.
You do? A wanted murderer?
Exactly. But I have more for him to do.
Like what?
I'll reveal that later.
Fair enough.
He will be with you for awhile.
Like how long?
Treat him well. Like a son.
Like a son? I don't get it.
You will. He is well-educated in Egyptian ways. And had a very good Hebrew upbringing.
The King's daughter adopted him but his mother was his nursemaid.
Jethro, you are a good man, wise, intelligent, understanding, God-fearing.
I've heard he is really bilingual in more ways than one..
He's going to need some advice for the task I have for him.
I am beginning to understand. I will do my best.
When the time comes, I'll give you some instructions . . .
Which You want me to share with Moses, right?
Exactly.
Consider it done.
I already have. Blessings on you, Jethro.
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A Conversation with Aaron
Exodus 2:15b-23; 18:1-27
Aaron, did your brother keep secrets from you?
Not that I know of. He confided in me a lot.
Good. What were some of the things he told you?
Oh my. Where do I begin?
That's up to you.
Well, first of all, I remember when he came down from the mountain.
When he smashed the tablets of stone.
He was angry. With me, our people, our stupidity.
Worshiping a golden calf wasn't too brilliant, was it?
He really laid it into me for listening to the grumbling of our people.
As he should have done.
We finally understood how important those commandments were.
Yes, they are universal axioms for every nation on earth.
It took a while for us to realize that.
I know. Most tribes and nations have had trouble with them.
Moses also kept me informed about a lot of things You told him.
Such as?
The provisions for the sacred tent. What went into it, how we were to worship.
Anything else?
Much more. He made certain we made our sacrifices properly.
That's when your sons disobeyed and were burned to death?
That was awful. It took awhile but we finally understood why.
Good. It had to be done, Aaron.
I know. But at first it was, uh, well, ugly. Unforgettable.
What about the lepers?
Moses gave us a ceremony for those who were healed.
What about sex?
Moses was very clear about that. He said You had forbidden sex with close relatives or another man's wife. He also said it is disgusting to have sex with an animal or to practice any of the sickening things that our neighbors do.
He was pretty blunt, wasn't he? Did he say anything about religious festivals?
He sure did. He surprised me more than once.
Did he ever mention Jethro?
Yes. He often quoted his father-in-law, Jethro. He was a wise man.
Sounds like Moses did what he was told to do.
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A Conversation with Nadab and Abihu
Leviticus 10:1-7
Gentlemen, may I have your attention?
We think You already have it.
All right, then, listen carefully.
We're listening.
Good. This is important.
Important enough to interrupt us?
That's what I want to talk to you about.
Go ahead, we're listening.
Your father, Aaron . . .
We know who our father is.
Your father has given you both specific instructions.
Yeah, we know. Lots of stupid rules. Day after day same ol' thing.
Do you realize what being a Priest means?
Of course. We are Priests because we are the sons of a Priest.
That's partly true. You are Priests when you fulfill the obligations of the Priesthood.
You mean we are supposed to be different?
Very much so. But you two don't seem to take that very seriously.
So what. We get the job done.
You have many responsibilities such as determining clean from unclean animals, performing various ceremonies for the people, upholding moral and religious laws . . .
Yeah. We know. Caring for the lamps. Blowing those infernal trumpets at the right time, and even worse, giving to the poor who don't deserve a thing.
You have disregarded My instructions and those of Moses and Aaron. Why?
Because they are burdensome, and some are even stupid.
Stupid? You can't be serious.
We are.
I see. Is that why you carelessly burned incense against regulations?
So what. We were in a hurry. What difference does it make?
That is a very sacred ritual.
Sacred? What's sacred about a questionable fragrance?
We won't go into that. But what is serious is your attitude . . .
Our attitude? Come one. We get the job done. Isn't that what counts?
I'm sorry, boys. Your carelessness, indifference, and worst of all, your disobedience has gone too far.
So now you are going to scold us?
You have not only disgraced your father and the Priesthood, and set a bad example, you have forfeited your lives. Until we meet again, Goodbye.
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A Conversation with Bezalel
Exodus 31:1-11; 35:30-35; 36:1-7
Jehovah, where are You?
I am right beside you.
That's good. I was afraid You had left me.
Why were you afraid?
I, I am not sure Probably because the task seems so difficult.
I see. You perhaps don't feel up to the task?
I'm really wondering if I can do it.
Did Moses give you My instructions?
He did. They are awesome. Almost unbelievable.
So you feel intimidated?
I do.
Good. That is why I chose you.
Because I feel intimidated? I don't understand.
Good. Let me explain. I met with Moses on Mt. Sinai.
I know. That's when he came down with the Tablets of Stone and smashed them to bits.
How well I remember. That was a classic example of 'righteous indignation.'
The Tablets were broken but the Law is indestructible, right?
Absolutely. They are universal, for every tribe and nation forever.
You also gave Moses a blueprint of the Tabernacle I understand.
I did. That's were you come into the picture.
Like You are the Designer and I am the developer, right?
Yes. You are a gifted artist and craftsman. I want the Tabernacle and its furnishings to be not only functional, mobile but impressive.
When I saw the plans Moses showed me, I was deeply impressed.
Good. That's why you were chosen. I wanted the best craftsmen to do the job.
And you want me to be the foreman.
More than a foreman. The inspiration, the chief craftsman, the supervisor.
I understand. With Your help I can do it. But it will be a monumental task, my Lord.
Not only will you create the Tabernacle, you will also build the Sacred Chest, the Table of Sacred Bread, The Lampstand, the Garments for the Priests, the Altar . . .
And the Courtyard! With Oholiab at my side, we'll get it done. And done well.
Moses will instruct the Priests in their duties involving the Tabernacle as well as its mobility.
Your design is a masterpiece. It will be the envy of the land.
Well, that may be. It will have a lot of competition with all the gods and idols that will surround my people. It will also be a prototype of the Temple which is yet to come.
I'm at Your command, Lord. Let's begin.
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A Conversation with a Leper
Leviticus 13, 14
Oh my God, what next?
Are you talking to Me?
Who are You? And where are You?
I am the Lord God, maker of heaven and earth.
And You are talking to me?
You called.
I did? I didn't know I called You.
You made it quite clear. You said 'Oh my God' three times.
Oh my God. I was merely spouting off.
I realize that. What's bothering you?
I've been a leper for years and years. Suddenly, my skin was cleansed. I don't know how it happened but I woke up one morning and couldn't believe what I was seeing.
That certainly is good news. That doesn't happen every day. Then what?
I was told to go to the Priest who would examine me. If he couldn't find any leprosy he could declare me clean.
And I take it you went to the Priest.
I did. What an ordeal.
How's that?
You would not believe what I had to do. The Priest had someone bring him two live birds, a stick of cedar wood, a piece of yarn and a branch from a hyssop plant.
Go on.
Then he killed one of the birds, dipped the other bird, the cedar, the red yarn, and the hyssop in the blood of the dead bird.
Then you were declared clean?
Yes, after he released the living bird. But then I had to go wash my clothes, shave my entire body, and take a bath before I could move back into camp. But I couldn't enter the tent for seven days.
Anything else?
After the seven days, I had to repeat that ritual. Then I had to bring the Priest two rams, a perfect year-old female lamb, a half pint of olive oil and six pounds of fine flour mixed with oil. Then the Priest offered a holy sacrifice.
Is that all?
The Priest then smeared some of the blood on my right ear lobe, on my right thumb, and on the big toe of my right foot. Then he sprinkled some of the oil seven times toward the Tabernacle and then repeated the process with the oil on my ear lobe, thumb and toe.
Did the Priest also inspect your tent for mildew?
He did. But thank God he didn't find any.
My friend. You are indeed clean. You can complain to Me anytime.
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A Conversation with Balaam
Numbers 22 (23-25)
Baalam, what's up?
King Balak is afraid of the Israelites, that's all.
Why is he afraid?
Because the Israelites have won so many battles.
Which ones?
They whipped the Caananites and the Amorites and they wiped out King Og and his whole army.
So why did the Moabities contact you?
They heard of my fame as a diviner, seer, sorcerer, . . .
Also a magician and prophet, right? Why did King Balak contact you?
He wanted help in defeating the powerful Israelites.
How powerful were they?
They were atrocious. I was asked to cast a curse on them. It is a frightening scene out there. Conquer or else be conquered.
They never wanted these twelve tribes entering their territory.
Exactly. But this land was promised to them I understand.
And you were sought to help drive them out?
Well, at least to defeat them.
How does it feel to serve two masters?
What do You mean?
You claim power as a diviner but you also claim power from Above. How can that be?
I see. You're saying a person cannot serve two opposing masters.
Baalam, guess what? You have to choose. You can't keep on serving both.
Is that why you blocked my final passage to the Moabites with a talking donkey?
I sent an angel. Tell me, is it easier to believe in a talking donkey or in angels?
I'll have to think about that.
You gave Moab some eloquent messages.
I warned the Moabites that my words came from God Most High.
You did. Balak was furious saying, 'I called you to place a curse on my enemies but you've blessed them three times.'
That's true. Before we parted, I warned them for the last time and left for home.
Baalam, you have been effective as a soothsayer and as a prophet. However, you have been a double agent for too long. Each time Balak approached you, you were more cautious in your refusals.
Is that why You rejected my seven altars and sacrifices?
It was only for show, Baalam. Give some serious thought to your future before it's too late.
I'll give it some thought.
Please do before it is too late.
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A Conversation With an Israeli Priest
Exodus 39:32-43; Leviticus 4:3-12
Sir, did you try to reach Me?
I did. Many times.
But I didn't respond?
No sir, Not once.
Do you have any idea why I didn't respond?
I'm sorry. I have no idea.
Then I am glad we're in touch with each other.
Me too. I am so confused.
That I can understand. Here's why.
I'm listening.
Priests are a Royal Priesthood.
Royal?
You know that only the descendants of Aaron are eligible.
Yes, I know that but it doesn't make sense.
I'm sorry. Perhaps it wasn't made clear to you.
Apparently not.
It was My idea in the first place.
Your idea? How?
There is to be a divine hierarchy in the Priesthood.
Divine? What do You mean?
All priests are to be from the family of Aaron. There will also be an orderly process.
That makes sense.
The lineage will be important and a High Priest will prevail.
I understand. Continue.
Each priest must be without blemish.
Perfect?
No. Not perfect as that is impossible but without blemishes.
Just like the animals that are offered?
Each priest will have his responsibilities which will be detailed.
Maybe that's the problem. Hardly anything has been explained.
Not explained? Nothing in writing?
Maybe that's why you accepted an unacceptable offering.
What do you mean?
Some of your people offered inferior lambs and goats.
Oh, that. I remember. I guess I forgot the rules.
You did. Many times. Deliberately?
So now will I be disqualified?
Possibly. It depends on how you function after our discussion.
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A Conversation with Joshua
Deuteronomy 31:1-9
Joshua, may I interrupt you for a moment?
Of course. I am at Your command.
I'm glad you used that word, “command.”
It does have an ominous sound.
You are so right. Your people have wandered long enough.
I'm glad to hear that. It has been an ordeal.
Now it is time to go into the Promised Land.
I don't think we can do it. The land is inhabited by some difficult people.
Here is what I told Moses to do: send some of your good men on ahead . . .
To spy on the land and the people?
The spies went into the land and returned with a verdict.
Good news and bad news, my Lord.
The bad news?
The majority felt it is impossible. The people are well-entrenched and will not give up any territory easily. Besides, there are giants in the land.
Joshua, I'm not sure how to tell you this.
I'm listening.
The people who inhabit the land are your ancestors and their descendants.
I know. That makes it even more difficult.
They have drifted away from their heritage, intermarried with their heathen neighbors. In fact, they have become so wicked they are beyond hope.
That's precisely how I feel. They are abominable, fierce, powerful.
I know. I have lost patience with them. They must be destroyed.
Destroyed? Can't we live together peacefully?
No. You will be no match for them. They will force you become like themselves.
I see. It's either them or us.
Their sins are so great they'll poison your people. I can't let that happen.
I understand. We will have to mount an army. That will take time.
That won't work, Joshua. You don't have the manpower or the leadership.
So how do we take over the land?
I'll be with you all the way. It won't be easy or pleasant at times.
I'm sure glad You are engineering this.
I am. They have become so evil they don't deserve to live, especially in the land promised to their forefathers.
We'll do what You say in spite of the spies' report.
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A Conversation with Rahab
Joshua 2
My Lord, may I have a few words with you?
Of course. I'm always available.
I have a question. Those two spies who came to my inn . . .
I remember them. Good men.
How did they happen to stop at my place? Did You have anything to do with that?
Why do you ask?
Mostly curious I guess. They were so understanding.
I'm glad to hear that. Their task was difficult.
I know.
You saved their lives.
I think we saved their lives.
Rahab, how did you know so much about the Israelites?
Because our family ties are still important to us.
You knew they were captives in Egypt for a long time?
I did. Four hundred years. How they survived I can't imagine.
I had plans for them which were, let's say, postponed.
We're not descendants of Jacob but we can trace our lineage back to Noah easily.
Good. Noah is a good role model for you.
A lot better than our King.
He's fallen by the wayside, hasn't he?
That's putting it mild. He thought Jericho was invulnerable.
That caught him by surprise, didn't it?
I was so pleased that my family cooperated with the demands of the spies.
Demands? Were they that forceful?
We knew they meant business . . .
So you were able to convince your family to take you seriously, right? And you are happily married?
Very much so.
Rahab, I am going to let you in on a secret.
A secret? If it comes from You, it must be important.
Because of your noble assistance, you will be listed in the Hall of Fame.
Hall of Fame? What do you mean?
You and your descendants will be included in the ancestry of the promised Messiah.
Really? My Lord, what an honor. But am I worthy?
That I will let you decide.
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A Conversation with Twelve Tribes
Joshua 4:1-7; 5:13-15; 6:1-27
Now hear this O Israel
We know that voice. It is God speaking. We must listen.
Choose twelve men, one from each tribe to each gather a rock from the riverbed.
One rock for each tribe. Consider it done. But why?
One day your children will ask: “Why are those rocks there?”
We understand. These rocks will be a reminder to our people.
Good. That monument will do just that.
You dried up the Jordan just like You did the Red Sea.
I don't want you to forget that. Never.
You want us to remember You, and to worship only You.
When you get near Jericho, camp nearby.
We will. We will call the camp Gilgal.
On the fourteenth day I want you to celebrate Passover. On the next day, manna will stop and you will begin to eat food grown in Caanan.
That will be a pleasure, Lord. Imagine, roasted grain and barley bread.
Your leader, Joshua, will meet a stranger carrying a sword.
A stranger?
Yes. I am sending him to you.
For what?
He will lead you into battle.
What battle?
There will be many. Now listen to me.
We're listening.
Jericho has very strong walls. You will not be able to break them down.
What will we do?
I want you to march slowly around Jericho once a day for six days.
Six days? Why six?
On the seventh day, march slowly around the city seven times. Then have the priests blow their trumpets and give a mighty shout.
What then?
The city will be yours. Be sure to protect Rahab and her family.
The pleasure is ours.
And Mine.
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A Conversation with Achan
Joshua 7
Achan, What is that you have hidden in your tent?
I hear a voice, but I see no one.
I am over here but you can't see me.
What do you want?
I want to know what you have hidden.
Why do you want to know?
I think you know why.
Alright. It is junk I took from Jericho after its destruction.
Did you have permission?
Huh? Why would I need permission?
Didn't you listen to Joshua?
Why would I listen to Joshua?
Isn't he your leader?
Yeah, but he isn't a dictator.
That gives you the right to do what you please?
What are you getting at?
There are consequences when you break the rules.
What rules? That nonsense Joshua made up?
That wasn't Joshua's idea. It was mine.
Oh, I get it. You told Joshua to make that stupid ruling.
It was hardly stupid, Achan. There was a reason for it.
Like what?
People are human. They need guidelines . . .
Or otherwise they'll do stupid things?
Like you did. You took some garments, coins and a bar of gold.
How did you know?
Achan, what you did affects everyone.
How's that?
If you broke the law, it could open the door for everyone.
I don't get it. If I didn't take that stuff, someone else would.
Remember Rahab? She did what was right and her whole family benefited.
Oh yeah. I am sorry. I disobeyed. Will my family be punished for what I did?
I'm sorry, but that is exactly what is going to happen.
Because we were warned?
Yes. Because you disobeyed even though you were warned.
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