Passing Over to the Promise Land

Isn’t it wonderful that the Lord suddenly opens the scriptures, pulling back a veil to show us more of Himself?  For example, In Exodus 28 I read how the priest wore an onyx stone on each shoulder “to bear the names of God’s people  as a memorial before the LORD.”
(Exodus 28:11-12)

Onyx Stone on the shoulder of the High Priest

 Inscribed on each stone were six tribes of Israel.  Immediately, I recognized the correlation while reading Joshua 4:1-24 about the Israelites crossing the Jordan River on dry land.

After the tribes of Israel walked past the Ark of the Covenant into the Jordan River Joshua instructed a member of each tribe to return and carry a stone upon their shoulder to the place they were to camp that night. This was an everlasting memorial to them how God opened the way to cross over to the Promised Land where all His promises are fulfilled.

“Suddenly, as I saw this correlation, I saw one more thing- the shoulders of my Savior Jesus Christ carrying His lamb.”  (Luke 15: 3-6)

The early church understood Christ has made us one as depicted in paintings on the wall of Christian catacombs. One painting depicts a shepherd carrying a lamb on his shoulders with sheep on both sides. I believe this represents two flocks- Jews and Gentile believers.
(Ephesians 3:6, John 10:16)

He never forgets nor forsakes us, but transfers us from His shoulders to the bosom of His heart, carrying us through the many trials in this life. We are forever sealed for redemption. (Ephesians 1:13-14)

Breast Plate of the High Priest – Our Saviour

“Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.”
Romans 8:34

The work He begins in us He completes. He is with us and for us and nothing can separate us from his great love.
(Song of Solomon 8:6, Philippians 1:6, Romans 8:39)

Near HIs Heart

“He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.”  Isaiah 40:11

“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne?
Though she may forget, I will not forget you!
Isaiah 49:15

Are you inscribed in the Lamb’s Book of Life? (Revelation 21:17)
Learn How the Cross is a Positive Sign and How You can be Positive About Your Salvation