Between Times

Then they came to the Valley of Eshcol, and there cut down a branch with one cluster of grapes; they carried it between two of them on a pole. They also brought some of the pomegranates and figs. Numbers 13:23

If this were among the clusters of grapes that we are accustomed to seeing in the grocery store then we would have a picture of absurdity. Two men to carry one cluster on a pole? However, that the spies, strong men of action that they were, required a pole and two bearers speaks of a cluster of surpassing size and weight. This would point to a land of plenty, just as God had promised to them. However, we know from the Bible story that Israel would not believe and did not enter the promised land. We also read that they did eventually enter Canaan, but they had a lengthy between times to endure.

We are also between the first coming of our Lord Jesus and the Second, and this between times seems anything but short to us. No doubt that between time of wandering the desert seemed long to the Israelites as the generation that refused God's promise died off one by one in their later years. While this between times we sail may appear that way at times, it is anything but as this time is to be used to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ! And, we are not waiting for the last of a generation to pass on, Jesus will return for us at any moment! As John said, "Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!"

Bucky