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figure two: MOSES

“By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; choosing rather to endure ill-treatment with the people of God, than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin; considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he was looking to the reward.

Moses was born into privilege, but took a step of humility by exiting the Pharoah’s household in order to be with his people—the Jews, who were in slavery.  Moses took the obedient steps God laid before him—even to the point of being a picture of salvation to the people—leading them in the mass exodus from Egypt.

* In what ways are you inhabiting this story (through Imaginative Meditation)?
* How do you see Moses as a figure of waiting?
* How does Moses actions foreshadow the Messiah’s coming?

figure three: RUTH

Ruth had entered a new culture by marriage.  Upon her husbands death—she had every right to return to the culture she found home in—the gods, the language, and the location. Ruth spoke the words of great loyalty to her mother in law—“where you go, I will go . . .” (Ruth 1).

* In what ways do you inhabit this story (through Imaginative Meditation)?
* How do you see Ruth as a figure of waiting?
* In what ways do her actions reflect the Messiah’s coming?

figure one: CALEB

Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said, “We should by all means go p and take possession of land, for we shall surely overcome it . . . the land which we passed through to spay out is an exceedingly good land.  If the Lord is pleased with us, then He will bring us into this land, and give it to us—a land which flows with milk and honey.  Only do not rebel against the Lord and do not fear the people of the land for they shall be our prey . . .”   Num. 13

Caleb and Joshua saw a different reality for the community’s future than any of the others who saw the promised land.  Their report was one of faith—believing that there was something else that God was doing—something beyond their ability and beyond their rationale.  The road ahead was both promised but overwhelming, fulfilling but sacrificial.

* In what ways are you inhabiting this story (through Imaginative Meditation)?
* In what ways is your life (and the communities life) adding up to more than the “typical” of society?
* How do you see a reality that is defined by obedience, service, generosity, love, and faith rather than autonomy, security, personal provision, and self-centered living?
* How do you see Caleb as a figure of waiting?