JUNE 3, Joshua 2:4-8

Rahab’s house was in the city of Jericho. People in cities do not live in tents but in houses made of stone, usually white limestone. Houses in those days were built very close to each other. Each had one single square shaped room, with a flat roof and an external staircase to access the roof. For the very poor, there could be a ladder instead. There was just one small window placed high up so that thieves cannot enter in. There was only one door which was kept open during the day to let light in and was secured with a wooden bar at night. Oil lamps were used to light up the house in the night.

Rahab hid the two spies on the rooftop. Thus, the roof proved to be such a useful space where Rahab saved the lives of two of God’s children. It was used for storage, drying of crops in the day and for resting in the cool night air. Guess who told the people to build railings or parapets round the roof to prevent anyone from falling off. The answer is found in Deuteronomy 22:8. Don’t you marvel at how well God knows and supplies our every need? Houses were considered gifts from God. The children of Israel held a dedication service for every newly built house. So, do you regard the house you are living in now, as a gift from God? If so, there is no need to wish for a more beautiful or larger house because God knows exactly what you need and has supplied it. Every gift from God is perfect.

Look at the picture of a house in the city. Draw two persons sleeping on the roof as well as a few bundles of flax stacked in a corner.

Thought: The house I am living in is a gift from God.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to be contented with whatever shelter You have provided for me while on earth. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.