Deuteronomy 33

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Deuteronomy 33:1, This is the blessing that Moses the man of God pronounced on the Israelites before his death. 

Moses’ final act before death was the bestow blessings on the tribes of Israel.  He has led these people for forty years.  I’m sure his emotions were strong as he spoke these blessings to the people he shepherded and loved.  Bestowing blessings before death was a common tradition at the time.  Think of Jacob and Esau competing for their father’s blessing on his deathbed.  There was some prophetical element to the blessings but also Moses was sharing his own thoughts about each tribe as he blesses them.  These are words the people can hold onto and remember as they transition to a new place and way of life. 

It’s always been interesting to me what famous people say on their deathbed.  In mid-east tradition, it was important to impart blessings on those you love most.  In Western tradition, we tend to focus on the final words spoken by a person.  John Wesley’s last words were, “Best of all, God is with us.” What an amazing legacy to leave.  D.L. Moody’s last words are reported to be, “If God be your partner, make your plans large.” 

Regardless of what one’s final words are, they are only important if one has lived life well.  Living well often leads to dying well.  If we live in the knowledge of God’s saving grace, then we also can die in the knowledge of God’s saving grace. 

Let’s pray…Dear Lord, We are so grateful for your love and grace and how they show up in our lives.  Help us live well, walking firmly with you, so that we can one day die well and move into glory.  We are thankful for who you are, Lord Jesus.  May we live representing you in a manner you are pleased by.  In Your Name, Amen.