As the Hebrew people enter into the process of taking possession of the Promised Land, God gives them victory over the Canaanite people. As they travel near the land of Edom, however, they become impatient. They have personally witnessed God's protection a number of times since they left Egypt, yet now, they choose to complain.

The result of this complaining is punishment. Serpents bite the people and they begin to die.

Yet, God does not abandon them to this fate. Moses asks for help on behalf of the people and God has mercy on them. When the people look up at the bronze serpent, God heals them and takes away the punishment they deserve.

In the Gospel today, Jesus is frustrated with the leaders. They do not understand his message or his unique relationship with the Father. Finally, he says, "When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will realize that I am heˇK."

Like the bronze serpent, Jesus will be lifted up on the cross. Through his death, God will bring healing to us. It is healing that we do not deserve, yet healing that is poured out on us.

About what am I tempted to complain in life? For what do I need healing in life? What would it be like to come to Jesus on the cross asking for what I desire?