Caleb, man of heart

"If I have all faith to carry mountains, but I have no love, I am nothing." 1 Corinthians 13: 2

Yesterday we saw in Caleb a beautiful figure of a man of faith, strengthened by the meditation of the Word. Today, let's take one more step with him.

Indeed, this Word is powerful in order to make of us "men of God accomplished, fit for every good work" (2 Tim. 3:17). Caleb, a strong and faithful man, illustrates in part only the far deeper transformation that the Word operates. By meditating, "contemplating the glory of the Lord, we are transformed into the same image" (2 Cor 3:18). Our faith is strengthened and at the same time we are progressing on the path of compassion and love. Let us receive all that the Word teaches. Our progress must be balanced, otherwise we risk being nothing (verse of the day).

Caleb's story reveals this profound transformation.

Let us turn to chapter 20 of the book of Joshua, where Caleb's name is not even quoted. This text presents the fate of those who involuntarily cause the death of a man. Crushed by guilt, they must flee home, family and friends to seek refuge in one of the 6 cities designated for this purpose. There they will have to be received, housed, helped for years. There we must use compassion. Now Hebron, the city from which Caleb took possession, was chosen as a city of refuge. Obviously God knows that these unfortunates will find the compassion they need with Caleb.

Let's go to chapter 21. The tribe of Levi recalls the order of Moses to give them cities. Some difficulties then appear : it is necessary that fighters make forty-eight cities of which they took possession at the risk of their life! For the benefit of the Levites who did not once participate in the fighting ! Who will agree to do that ? The answer is admirable: the first city drawn by lot is Hebron. God has led the lot, for Caleb is ready for this sacrifice. Out of love, Caleb set an example for all, he returned Hebron and agreed to go and live in the hamlets of his campaign.

What a transformation !

"We know the love of him who has left his life for us ; And we must leave our lives for the brothers" (1 John 3:16).

Source (To pleasing the Lord)