Readings for today: Numbers 29-32
There is a famous test in psychology where the patient is shown a series of inkblots. They describe what they see while a psychologist analyzes their responses. It’s what’s known as a “projective test” because, in theory, the patient reveals different aspects of their mental state as they describe what they “see” in the inkblot. It was invented in 1921 by a Swiss psychiatrist named Hermann Rorschach and is one of the most widely used psychological tests to this day.
I thought about the Rorschach test as I read our passage for today. In Numbers 32, we read about a significant conflict between Moses and two of the tribes of Israel. The Reubenites and Gadites came forward with a request. They asked to settle on the wrong side of the Jordan River. They asked for an inheritance outside the Promised Land. This provoked a kind of trauma response in Moses. He assumed they were making the same mistake as their forefathers and mothers by refusing to go into the land. He forcefully reminds them of what happened and threatens them with destruction if they don’t follow through on God’s plan. The Reubenites and Gadites are quick to respond. They will go with the people of Israel into the Promised Land and will not rest until God’s plan is complete.
Isn’t it interesting that a seemingly innocent request spins everyone up so quickly? Even a godly leader like Moses? What is it about human beings that causes us to be so prone to snap judgments? Hot takes? Why do we struggle so much to wait and listen and truly understand? Why is it so hard for us to forgive, extend grace, and assume the best of one another? Over the last week, I’ve had several conversations involving politics, religion, social and cultural issues, and personal differences. As I’ve listened to those I love and serve attempt to process what they are feeling, it’s been amazing how different people can view the same situation or the same conversation through such different eyes. Every situation becomes a Rorschach test of sorts as we project our own fears and insecurities and frustrations on the other person or persons. It could be a political party. It could be a cultural or social group. It could be people of a different faith. It could just be someone with whom we are at odds.
Thankfully, the Reubenites and Gadites are quick to humble themselves. “Your servants will do just as my Lord commands.” (Numbers 32:25 CSB) They not only promise to go with Israel into the Promised Land but they will lead the way. They will make the greater sacrifice. They will honor their commitment to the Lord and to Moses. And because they honor God, Moses honors them. He grants their request and the conflict is resolved. Humility is the key to resolving differences. Seeking to understand rather than be understood. Seeking to love rather than be loved. Seeking to serve rather than be served. This is how we come together even when we disagree and find our unity in Christ.
Readings for tomorrow: Numbers 33-36