Read: Joshua 23

You have heard the word “covenant” before, but what exactly does it mean? What does it mean to you that you are part of God’s covenant?

In Joshua 23, Joshua gives a farewell speech to the children of Israel. And even though he doesn’t use the word “covenant,” he does remind the Israelites of what it means to be part of God’s covenant.

They were God’s special people. He chose them because he wanted to have a special relationship of love with them. He wanted to love them and to send Jesus to die on the cross for them. And so God had given the Israelites the land of Canaan. In verse 3, Joshua reminds the Israelites that the Lord had destroyed all the nations for their sake.

God has made a covenant with you as well. Because you were born to believing parents, you are part of that covenant. Isn’t that wonderful? It’s not because you are good or because he knew you that you would serve him. It’s just because the Lord wants you to be his special child. He gave you parents who believe, and he made you part of this covenant. And so the Lord does many good things for you too, just like he did for the Israelites. He cares for you, he loves you, he gives people in your life who can tell you about the Lord, and he forgives you. And he does all these things for you because you are his covenant child.

Joshua told the Israelites to be careful to make sure they always loved the Lord in return. They had to respond to God’s gracious love by loving him back. And that’s the same for you as well. Because the Lord chose you, because the Lord loves you, because you are part of his covenant, you must also love the Lord back. And how can you show your love for the Lord? By obeying him. When you think about all the loving things God does for you, then you will want to obey the Lord.

Reflection with your child:

What does it mean to be part of God’s covenant?

Source: Sermon by Rev. P. Holtvlüwer