THE SCARLET CORD

Joshua 2:18    Behold, when we come into the land, you shall tie this scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down, and you shall gather into your house your father and mother, your brothers, and all your father's household.

       Often times in the Old Testament we will read passages that remind us of the life of Christ depicted in the New Testament. Also, some Old Testament passages remind us of earlier Old Testament stories, too. In either case what we find is God’s unfolding drama of redemption for mankind. The acts of God are repeated from generation to generation. “For I the LORD do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed.” (Malachi 3:6) His nature is the same and His mercy is relentless throughout time.

      The scarlet colored rope has been seen as a symbol for the blood of Christ and His atoning work on the cross for us. Ephesians 2:13 reminds us that at one time we too were in peril in our lives but “have been brought near [to God] by the blood of Christ”. Had we remained unrepentant, without confession of our sin to Him, we would have died without hope. But the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ, has freed us from our sins (Revelation 1:5).

      Rahab was to use a scarlet cord to let down the spies for their escape. When they were to return, the scarlet cord was to be tied to the window as a reminder that Israel’s warriors would pass by the occupants of that home with their destruction. All who took refuge with Rahab would be saved from destruction. God had acted similarly when the Jews in Egypt spread the blood of a Passover lamb on their door frames as the angel of death brought destruction to the families of Egypt.

      Today we acknowledge the spiritual element of the covenant of God’s grace. He has always met the needs of his people for centuries past. How much more confident can we be as Christians as we look into our future? God has always been faithful to His word as his people have obeyed His commands. May the Holy Spirit bring us renewed strength to live courageously in anticipation of our King’s return.