TAKING A CENSUS

Today's reading: Numbers 25-28

I've got to tell you, after reading through the drama and excitement of Numbers 25, my heart and mind 'hit the brakes' as I looked at the heading for Numbers 26--The second census of the nation.

A census.

A list of tribes, families and clans.

A very long list of names I, for the most part, cannot even pronounce.

I could have easily closed my Bible and been done with my reading for the day, but instead?

Instead, I chose to pray.

I chose to ask God to speak to me through the list of names, about the list of names, while in the list of names.

And here is what He shared with my heart...

Are you one of Mine?

You see, it's not about bloodlines, lineage or genealogy anymore--it's about our own personal decision to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior.

Am I His? Am I recognized as His child? Am I following in His shadow? Am I adopted by God into His family?

I don't recognize many names listed in Numbers 25--but to at least have been named--what a privilege, what an honor, what a legacy!

I want to be one that's listed.

One that's remembered for being His.

One that has her name written in His book and her 'picture on His fridge.'

If God chose to take a census today, I want my name on the list!