Throughout their journey through the desert, the Israelites tried the patience of Moses and God continually. They were unceasing in their complaining, negativity, and rebellion. It seems that they still had much to learn about trust in God, obedience, humility, and a host of other things. In the dramatic story of the confrontation in the tent of meeting, God makes it clear that Moses is His chosen and trusted one. He has shown himself to be faithful and reliable, while the others have not. True power - not brute force - is not to be grasped or demanded; it is given by God to those who show that they can be trusted to use it for the good of others. What would we do with power and responsibility? Are we wise and loving enough to be called to greater things?

One can be religiously correct and spiritually barren. Those who seemed to be so concerned about purity and ritual cleanliness displayed a disturbing lack of love and justice in their words and actions. The source of all purity and impurity is the human heart, not food or obedience to rules. Paying careful attention to our words and thoughts for one whole day can be a humbling and enlightening experience. In a time when many seem to be preoccupied with correctness we need to ensure that our words, thoughts, and actions towards others always show generosity, love, forgiveness, and justice. Only then can we be sure that we are 'right' with God. Let us ensure that the source of our religion is the heart.