Day 69: The Bronze Serpent

Today's readings: Numbers 21, Deuteronomy 22, and Psalm 102.

I. Numbers 21 begins with an Israelite victory over the king of Arad, after making a vow to God. Yet, the complaining came again afterwards, which angered the Lord. So God sent venomous snakes among them, and many died. After the people repented, then, as the BIY Companion, Vol 1, notes:

God tells Moses to fashion a bronze serpent, which will heal all those who look upon it. This foreshadows the ministry of Jesus, who says that the Son of Man must be lifted up in order for people to be saved (see John 3:14). Because serpents are the cause of pain and death, God gives the Israelites a bronze serpent to heal them. The very image of what caused their suffering will be the cause of their healing. Similarly, when we look upon the image of Jesus on the Cross, we see the sign of sin and shame become the symbol of hope and salvation. (p. 148)

Finally, the Israelites journey toward Moab, defeating Sihon of the Amorites and Og of Bashan.

II. Moses continues on miscellaneous laws in Deuteronomy 22, repeatedly teaching that covenant life includes practical care like helping neighbors, preventing harm, and acting justly. Interestingly, the tassels in verse 12 are related to the “fringes” on garments Jesus is described as wearing in Matthew 9:20 and also seen in 23:5.

III. Psalm 102 is one of lament that, as the Ignatius Bible notes:

Christian tradition counts as one of the seven penitential psalms, along with Pss 6, 32, 38, 51, 130, 143. The Psalmist pleads for God's help (102:1-2), complains that his health is failing (102:3-11), expresses confidence that God will restore Zion and her exiled children (102:12-22), and contrasts the eternity of God with the shortness of human life (102:23-28). He prays both for himself and for his suffering people. (p. 917)

That's it for today!