Deuteronomy 18:15-20

By Nancy Neal

Transitions are challenging, whether it’s a new job, a new house, a new community, or a new church. We react in a variety of ways during transitions. Sometimes we are cranky, sometimes we quietly turn inward, and sometimes we just keep ourselves busy. In the uncertainty, we want certainty. While we cannot gaze into a crystal ball and know the future, this passage assures us that God will guide us and continue to speak to us.
Moses addresses the people of Israel as they prepare to enter the land of promise. He tells them that God will provide leadership through a prophet like himself. The prophet may bring words that cause discomfort because Israel is to be distinctive among the nations. The people are to heed the prophet’s words to avoid the seducements of the land in which they will settle.

Today prophets rise up among us. They challenge us and call us to repent. As Christians we too are to be a distinctive people. We are not to fall prey to the idols of the land in which we settle.

Transitions require leadership and discernment to understand what God has to say to us in this time and in this place. It will be a word that challenges us and makes us uncomfortable. It will call us to make sacrifices. We must heed the words that the prophets speak in God’s name.

Prayer

O God, you promise to speak to us. Help us to recognize and heed the prophet. We trust in you today and in all the days to come. With all gratitude and praise. Amen.