May. 7, 2009 - It's Time
As I continue through Numbers, today I read about the LORD calling Miriam and then Aaron home. It doesn't say much about Miriam's death, but it gives good detail on Aaron's. I wondered what it would be like to put myself in his or Moses' place.
The LORD told them it was time for Aaron to die. First of all, how would I feel if I were Moses? Walking up the mountain, knowing it was time for my brother, my partner in ministry, to die? How would it feel to have to come down the mountain alone and tell the people he was dead? How would it feel as the people to watch your leaders die off one by one?
What would I be thinking if I were Aaron? Would I be afraid? Would I be sad? Matthew Henry, in his commentary, seems to think he was at peace with it. I think I would be wondering if I had done it all right - knowing full well I hadn't (remember him and Miriam and the leprosy?). How would I feel climbing a mountain with my brother and son, knowing I wouldn't be coming down with them? Would I be at peace with how I'd spent my life?
How would I feel if I were Eleazar? Did he know going up that his daddy was going to die? How would he feel about taking over Aaron's position? Would I feel up to the task? After all I'd seen, would I be afraid to take the postion?
Will I be okay when the LORD calls me home? Will I think I've spent my time well? Will I be at peace with both leaving and leaving my family to carry on the message?