Never Fear to Be a Contradiction
Judges 1:32-2:8
Synopsis Judges 1:32- 2:8 6/2/2018
In the time of the judges, the situation on the ground for much of Israel was indeterminate. The tribes had not been able to take-over certain regions of the Promised Land. And as a rule, they were more successful in taking possession of the mountain regions. But they seemed to consistently struggle to displace the people on the plains. This had to do with differences in technology – especially their iron chariots. On the plains the chariot was a devastating military force. But these were much less effective in rough, mountainous territory.
So, living with their adversaries became a new norm. But the Israelites were reminded by God not to make a covenant with the peoples they were not yet able to force out.
The Mountain People
It was easier for the Israelite army to take the highlands and the mountains than it was on the plains. In the mountains, traditional mass warfare and military technology mattered less than communal relationships, endurance and agility.
The mountains are for guerilla fighters.
Never Fear to Be a Contradiction
Everything about Christian faith is counter-intuitive. A crucifix as a symbol of peace and hope. A constitutional willingness to be misunderstood and maligned. A determination to love in the face of hatred.
What of this could attract a convert? It is a marketer’s nightmare. It makes me think; what post-modern person really wants this? Or, who could sell the life of a Christian? Who could persuade someone to live the Way of Givenness? Who wants to be a part of Authentic Community?
And yet here they come. Up to the mountains. Up where there is authentic relationship. Up where there is a transcendent power. Up where the fight for meaning and significance isn’t selfish.
Up to inquire. Willing to give up the fine clothes and sumptuous food. Deciding against the chase for wealth and power and pride. Seeking something to believe in.
That was atheist me thirty years ago. I wasn’t the last to inquire.
“This God who girded me with might, kept my way unerring, Who made my feet like a deer’s, and set me on the heights, Who trained my hands for war, my arms to string a bow of bronze” Psa 18:33-35
