So Moses did as the Lord commanded him. He took Joshua and had him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole congregation; he laid his hands on him and commissioned him—as the Lord had directed through Moses.
Joshua must have had spiritual potential which was spotted early-on by Moses. And we learn of it by a presumptive mention of the choice of Joshua to lead Israel in a battle against, the army of Amalek, Numbers 17:9.
The next mention is equally brief and presumptive. We find out that Moses has taken young Joshua with him into the “Tent of Meeting” where God and Moses would talk “face to face as one speaks to a friend.” Not even Aaron, the High Priest, went with Moses to this meeing. But Joshua did, Exodus 33:11.
In Numbers 13:1-16 Moses is told by God to send 12 spies on a reconnaissance mission into Canaan, each man representing one of the twelve tribal units of Israel; presumably because of their acumen. Joshua was among them, in this third step of his development – first as a military man, then a man of worship, and now an astute man of judgment and faith.
In the final stage of Joshua’s preparation was his appointment to be the successor to Moses. Indeed, God’s self was the one who chose Joshua to be appointed leader of Israel, Numbers 27:12-23. Each stage of Joshua’s preparation increased his faith, gave him greater wisdom and judgment, and strong courage.
Lent, in its original form was designed to prepare candidates for baptism and for Easter. What effect do you think that would have on us if we were as prepared as Joshua was?
God of Moses and Joshua, how inspired we are to see the progress of one of the great men of faith. Watching them rise to challenges in faith and persevering despite difficulties. Please help us to be like them in the way we live our lives. In your name, Amen.