Numbers 35

“You shall not pollute the land in which you live” (v33).  The arrangement of Israel, not just its worship, reflected God’s holiness and compassion.  The religious leaders (Levites) of the nation didn’t have a normal land inheritance, because they lived by the offerings of the people; God Himself was their “inheritance”.  Also, the Levites presided over six “cities of refuge,” where those who committed manslaughter (accidental killing) could find refuge and avoid the cycle of revenge-violence. 

“I the LORD dwell in the midst of the people of Israel” (v34). As God’s people, Israel was different.  When we are committed to Him, His mercy and goodness will be evident in how we how we live, work, relate to others.