March 31

March 31

Moses' Death -- Moses' death, his dead body, & discussion with Jesus about the cross.

Today's Readings:

Reading 1: Deuteronomy 34

Reading 2: Luke 9:27-36

Reading 3: Jude 9

So we reach the end of the book of Deuteronomy and with it the end of the life of Moses. This completes the five books of Moses in the Old Testament (called the Pentateuch).

Moses was still fit at 120 years old; the greatest prophet ever, who saw God face to face and faithfully passed on God's instructions to the people.

When Moses died, God buried him, and no-one is sure where the gravesite is. In a similar manner, Jesus has no gravesite, and it may have been this similarity that He discussed with Moses on the Mount of Transfiguration in Luke 9. Just as Moses was whisked away by God, so Jesus was suddenly removed after His death and resurrection.

This unique characteristic of both sets them apart from their peers and underscores the authority and power of God to direct our lives as He wishes. Michael the archangel also respects that authority in his battle with satan, saying "The Lord rebuke you" rather than attacking in his own might. We do well to follow His example and trust God to direct our lives as He sees fit. It is as though God was speaking to each of us, as well as to the disciples when He said "This is my Son, my Chosen One. Listen to him."

Have a great day, listening and obeying!

Mark.