This coming Sunday is the 4th Sunday in Lent. With the dialogue with Nicodemus over, the verses become a monologue by Jesus in which he makes a reference to a well known story from the Book of Numbers – well known to the first century audience, but perhaps not to you. The setting for the reference is that the tribes have transited the wilderness and are near the Promised Land. Moses sends out 12 spies to reconnoiter the land. Ten return giving reports of dire warning and the message to turn back. Two recognize the peril but also note the fertility of the land – and point out that God is ever on their side. The people turn back, condemned to wander in the wilderness and the grumbling begins (actually continues!): Continue reading →