Crossing the Jordan (Joshua 4:23-24)
The Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land, but an obstacle stood in their way – the Jordan River. Just as at the Red Sea, God parted the waters and provided a way forward. Joshua reminded the people that God’s purposes in both partings were the same – “so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful and so that you might always fear the Lord your God.” (vs. 24) The people crossed over the Jordan on dry land. After Israel marched around Jericho for seven days, God caused the fortified city to fall. And so, God began to fulfill a second promise to Abraham, to give his descendants a great land.
Family Activity
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Activity Time: 15 minutes
Materials: holiday photo or travel souvenir, calendar, sticky note, kitchen timer, alarm clock or phone alarm, a rock for each family member, permanent markers
Show each object (except the rocks) and discuss how it helps us remember important events or things we should do. God wanted the people of Israel to know that he always keeps his promises, so he gave them a special reminder. God used twelve rocks taken from the Jordan River to remind his people of his powerful ability to care for them. This would be important to remember as Israel entered a new land filled with people and situations they had never encountered. Hand each member of the family a rock and markers. On each rock, record a way that God has provided or cared for your family. Pile the rocks in a place where you can easily see them and be reminded of God’s greatness and care.
Bible:
Read Joshua 3:13-17 and Joshua 4 with your family.
Discuss:
- Besides being a reminder to the people who witnessed this miracle, how would the rocks be used in the future?
- What is our family learning about God that we could pass on to future generations?
Pray:
Ask God to give your family daily reminders of who he is, especially when he leads you into unknown territory.
