Joshua 6:1-5, 12-17

Today’s symbol is the shofar, which is a musical instrument made from a ram’s horn. God brought the people into the Promised Land, and saved them when they blew the shofar outside of Jericho.

I wonder how it felt to walk silently around those tall, strong city walls for seven days? I wonder if it would be hard to keep my body and voice quiet? I wonder what it was like to trust that God and God alone would bring the walls down?

I wonder what the sound of the seven shofars was like, as they sounded off the city walls? I wonder how it felt to finally be able to shout aloud to God, after being silent for so long?
I wonder, is it ever hard for me to believe that God is strong and will keep his promises? What can make me feel that way? What do I want to say to God about that?

I wonder if there has ever been a time when I felt confident and safe in God’s mighty love? What did that feel like inside my body? Can I say thank you to God for that time?

I wonder how this story can help us in Advent? Can I ask God to walk with me as I wait, just as the Israelites waited outside Jericho? Can I get ready to raise my voice to celebrate, when God arrives to save?

Mighty God, you fought for your people at Jericho. Help us to trust in your strength, like Joshua and like the Israelites. Thank you that we do not have to fight for ourselves or save ourselves, because you are our strength and our shield.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.