Seminary Reflections: The Wilderness (Numbers 20)

The wilderness. It’s both a literal and metaphorical reality for anyone who puts their faith in God. For Israel, the wilderness was a space of formation—a training and testing ground where they learned who God was and who they were called to be. Numbers 20 offers a glimpse into this wilderness life, marked by loss, human failure, and God’s unwavering faithfulness.

The chapter opens with the death of Miriam, Moses and Aaron’s sister. Surrounded by the congregation at Kadesh, Miriam’s life comes to an end, and she is buried there. The text offers no details about the cause of her death or the emotions surrounding it, yet her passing is noted as significant. Miriam, who played such a vital role in Israel’s story, is remembered here, her death marking a solemn moment in their journey.

The chapter closes with another death—Aaron’s. On Mount Hor, Aaron passes away as a direct result of his rebellion against God’s command. His death bookends the chapter, leaving Moses without two of his closest companions in leadership. These losses highlight the fragility and humanity of even the most prominent figures in Israel’s history.

Verses 2-13 recount one of the most famous incidents in the wilderness journey: Moses striking the rock. The people, weary and frustrated, question Moses and Aaron’s leadership, doubting their ability to lead them to sustenance. In desperation, Moses and Aaron turn to God, seeking wisdom and provision.

God responds with grace: “Take the staff, and assemble the congregation… and tell the rock before their eyes to yield its water” (Numbers 20:8 ESV). But what happens next is a critical turning point. Moses takes the staff as commanded but diverges from God’s instruction. Instead of speaking to the rock, he strikes it in frustration after rebuking the people.

Water flows from the rock, fulfilling God’s promise to provide, but Moses is confronted for his disobedience. His decision to take matters into his own hands, even in a moment of frustration, has consequences. It’s a sobering reminder that partial obedience is not obedience.

From there, Israel faces another challenge. In verses 14-21, Moses sends messengers to the king of Edom, requesting passage through his territory. Despite a promise to repay any costs, the king refuses and even threatens war. Israel is forced to find another, less convenient route.

This encounter underscores the reality of human opposition in the wilderness. The journey to the Promised Land is not without resistance, and Israel’s path is often rerouted by external forces. Yet, even in the face of opposition, God’s faithfulness remains steady.

Numbers 20 is a chapter filled with loss, failure, and detours, yet it’s also a powerful testament to God’s character. It shows us a God who is deeply committed to His principles, who holds His people accountable, but who is also exceedingly gracious. He provides water for a grumbling people. He continues to lead His rebellious nation.

This chapter reminds us that life in the wilderness—both theirs and ours—is marked by human brokenness, but God remains faithful to His promises. He uses flawed vessels like Moses and Aaron to lead His people forward, even as He points them toward the ultimate promise fulfilled in Christ—the One who was broken on our behalf.