I have always felt bad that Moses didn’t get to enter the Promised Land.  After all, he did spend 40 grueling years with a bunch of stiff-necked people in a desert.  Because of one little incident, Moses was disqualified and didn’t even get to reach his little toe over into the land of promise.

Evidently when God says, “Speak to the rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water,” and instead you speak to the people (“Listen, you bunch of rebels…”) and hit the rock not once, but twice – you’ve crossed the line.  Moses lost it, and God was dishonored in front of a million Israelites.  Frustration can push you over the edge sometimes.

Just before Moses died, God had him climb a mountain (again) and allowed him a panoramic view of the Promised Land.  Oh, how Moses must have longed to see the 40 year mission to its completion and lead a glorious march into Canaan.  But, a glimpse was all he got.  Which is why my heart skipped a beat when I read Mark 9:4, “And there appeared before them Elijah and Moses, who were talking with Jesus.”

Jesus had led Peter, James and John up a high mountain.  Suddenly, as Jesus began to transform before their eyes, Moses and Elijah appeared.  And where were they?  Smack dab in the middle of the Promised Land, that’s where!  By God’s grace, Moses finally made it!  Sure, it was 1,400 years later, but how sweet of God to allow Moses to stand on that mount with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6