October 13, 2016. Eureka Springs, AR. Joshua and Caleb

As part of my presentation in The Holy Land here at TGPP, I tell of the obedience of Joshua and Caleb as the only two of twelve tribal leaders sent by Moses to explore the Promised Land who returned with a favorable, optimistic report for conquering the land God had promised to Abraham and now wanted to give to the Children of Israel as they began their journey out of slavery in Egypt. Today, on a cold, grey, "winter-like" day, I met a young couple and their very young children touring the Holy Land.
I wasn't able to give my usual presentation, due to the difficulty the three young adults were having in controlling their five very young children. But, I was able at one point, as the dad and two of his boys, Joshua and Caleb, sat in front of the four foot high display of The Ten Commandments, to talk to them about their namesakes and their role in the journey to Canaan. The boys, about 7 and 5, knew the story, understood the faithfulness of Joshua and Caleb and while the dad held his other son, Levi, I thought about what it would be like for these three boys and their sister, Abigail, to model the legacy of the names they had been given by their parents.
Names in the Bible speak to character traits, behavioral characteristics or hoped-for goals, far different than the way we name children today. Many times names and nicknames do not have any real depth or significance, and may honor a star athlete, a movie star, are the trendy names for the year, or are just an original concoction of parents who want their children to have a unique moniker. Biblical names do still show up, but not like they did in the past.
I pray that Joshua, Caleb, Levi and Abigail grow up in a Godly home, become Godly young adults and Godly adults; that in some way this experience at The Great Passion Play will impact them and their parents in a positive way that will further their growth and maturity in faith and lead them to lead others to trust, belief and faith in Him as well. One day we will know how what we have done in His Name has impacted others and furthered His Kingdom. Until then----What a joy it is to be In His Service.

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