Read: Genesis 38
Matthew 1:3
Did you catch that? A prostitute is the Heroin of this story. Who would have thought a woman whose lifestyle would be worthy of death in the Jewish culture would be an instrument of protection and salvation for Joshua and the other spies? Rahab knew little of their God beyond the stories she had heard. When given the opportunity to turn over the spies, she responded in faith, showing mercy, sheltering them, and, in doing so, acknowledged the greatness of their God.
A scarlet cord hung in Rahab’s window as a sign of the promise between her and the spies. This cord signaled to the soldiers conquering Jericho to spare her household- such a powerful foreshadowing of what Jesus would one day do for us. Much like Rahab, we have also sinned and deserve punishment, but Jesus marked us with His blood shed on the cross. In God’s eyes, we are accepted not for how good we are but because of what Jesus has done for us.
Not only were Rahab and her family spared, but she spent the rest of her days as part of the Israelite community. She had the honor of being included in the very lineage of our Lord and Savior, even though she was a foreigner.
What do you think was the key to Rahab’s transformation? Is the same life transformation happening in you?
Prayer and Reflection:
Take a moment to thank God for how He has shown mercy to you. Ask Him to remind you of your journey as you have come to know Him and continue His transforming work in your life.
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