Joshua 1-2

“Now then, please swear to me by the LORD … that you will save alive my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all who belong to them, and deliver our lives from death” (2:12-13).  The story of the Israelites’ very first conquest in the Promised Land features a non-Israelite prostitute named Rahab.  Rahab chose to side with Israel’s God, and she claimed refuge for her whole family.  Even as Israel began to “inherit the land” (1:6), they were including those who called on God for salvation.

“I will not leave you or forsake you” (1:5).  Whatever our past, when we throw ourselves on God’s mercy, He adopts us as His beloved children.