Joshua 20 The Cities of Refuge

The promised land would be characterized by justice. God Almighty, the God of justice, would ensure that his people living in the land he promised would be protected from the evils of the worldly justice that prevailed at the time. Ancient Near Eastern custom would allow people to take revenge for any wrongdoing against them or their family. Unfortunately, at times, vengeance could be exacted without any proof. On top of that, revenge at times spilled over to the whole family of the guilty party, taking innocent lives.

The cities of refuge were designed to counter the oppression of a worldly justice. If a person killed someone, they could run to the nearest city to take refuge from certain death in the hands of the relative seeking vengeance (the avenger of blood). The priest would set up a hearing to determine if it was murder or manslaughter. At least three witnesses were required to be able to find a person guilty of murder (premeditated killing). Capital punishment was the sentence for murder. If manslaughter (accidental death), then the person was required to live in the city of refuge until the death of the presiding priest. At that time, he would be set free.

Many argue that the cities of refuge were not a system of courts or prisons, but places of atonement. Though we can't deny that there is a little of everything, the cities of refuge were mainly a place to find protection from the world and cleansing for unintentional sin. I believe it is a type of Christ our Redeemer. Where can we find refuge for our souls from the ravages of sin? It is in Jesus! Where can we find cleansing for our sin that weighs us down? It is in the powerful blood of Jesus! Who can we run to in our hour of need? It is Jesus our Lord!

Then like today, our God established a system to benefit his people. It is his people's responsibility to take advantage of God's provision. Cities of refuge were available, but people had to run to it to enjoy its benefits. Today, Jesus is waiting with arms wide open to embrace those who run to him. He is the city that provides refuge. He is the sacrifice that cleanses all sin. He is the high priest who offers his life to confer freedom.

What am I waiting for? Why don't I run to the arms of the one who loves me and promises to protect me? Why do I take my chances hiding on my own, exposing my life to the avenger of blood, the accuser of my soul? Why do I continue to carry the weight of my guilt and shame when there is provision for cleansing and freedom? Run, my soul! Run to your refuge! Run, my soul! Run to his embrace! It is in Jesus where I find mercy and grace.

Father, help me to stop hiding on my own. Guide me to the arms of Jesus every time I sin. Thank you for your forgiveness. May your justice prevail forevermore! Amen.