Expanding Refuge, Expanding Hearts

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Verses:Deuteronomy 19:1-10 - "Therefore I command you, saying, You shall set apart three cities for yourselves. If Yahweh your God enlarges your border, as he has sworn to your fathers, and gives you all the land which he promised to give to your fathers; if you keep all this commandment to do it, which I command you this day, to love Yahweh your God, and to walk ever in his ways; then you shall add three cities more for yourselves, besides these three: that innocent blood not be shed in the midst of your land, which Yahweh your God gives you for an inheritance, and so blood be on you."

In this passage, God instructs His people to establish cities of refuge, providing sanctuary for those who unintentionally take a life. Initially, three cities were set apart, with instructions to add three more as their territory and spiritual stability expanded.

This commandment reveals God's heart for mercy and compassion. By providing refuge, He protects both the innocent and the unintentional offender. This expansion of refuge cities symbolizes the growth of God's people in spiritual maturity and love.

As believers, when we experience blessings and spiritual stability, our capacity for empathy and acceptance should increase. We should become more accommodating, offering refuge to those seeking solace. Our hearts, like the cities of refuge, should expand to welcome the weary and the broken.

Just as God's people were called to add more cities, we are called to enlarge our hearts, creating spaces for those who desperately need acceptance. This expansion requires intentional obedience to God's commandments and a deepening love for Him.

In a world where judgment and condemnation often prevail, may we be agents of refuge, reflecting God's mercy and compassion.

Prayer:

Oh Lord, expand our hearts to accommodate those seeking refuge. May our spiritual growth translate into increased empathy and love. Help us create spaces for the broken and weary, reflecting Your mercy and compassion. May our lives be a sanctuary for those in need.

Amen.

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