Marah, where God “healed” the bitter water, brings in a miscellaneous note to the previous studies on Jehovah-Rapha.
When they came to Marah, they could not drink the water of Marah because it was bitter; therefore it was named Marah. And the people grumbled against Moses, saying, “What shall we drink?” And he cried to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a log and he threw it into the water, and the water became sweet. Exodus 15:23-25
Some observations:
- In the text, it is God who heals. He changed the bitter water sweet.
- God used the log as an instrument to effect the change. The log, which He made, became a tool in the hand of Moses.
- Moses had to listen to God and throw the log into the water – even though that didn’t make sense. Wood shouldn’t change the character of water.
I see a picture of God providing the healing – every aspect of it.
- God is its Author
- He can use whatever tool He chooses, even a log. But any tool used is His creation: technology and advancement in medicine to assist in healing, design and order allowing innovation, and wisdom to reconcile relationships and bring mental and emotional healing. It’s all His.
- He often gives us a part to play in it – whether it’s an act of obedience – or picking up the tools He’s given us.
As God once again saves Israel, I wonder at His use of the log. This simple piece of wood, which could also be translated tree, points my mind to the cross, to Jesus. This is the picture of healing.
Lord, let me always see Your hand in healing and restoring around me. It’s not always in miracles and act of wonders (though I love those too!) but in the common grace of science and Your creation. Give me eyes to see Your healing work through simple acts of obedience and in the courage of Your people to act in ways that don’t always make sense in our world. And make me a willing participant in Your grand plan.
