The Father knows… that’s for sure!
We’ve read about cities of refuge earlier in Deuteronomy (c4), and we visit the topic again. He even speaks about adding more cities of refuge in the case of Israel’s border being enlarged. Also, the record speaks about false witnesses and the need for multiple witnesses to establish truth.
(Side note: Jesus stated the Father, Himself, and His works bore witness of Him being the Son of God in John 5:31-37. 1 John 5 speaks of 3 bearing witness of Jesus as the Messiah as well.)
But… notice the heart of the Father here in this chapter. He knows deadly accidents will happen. And He knows the tendency of our hearts to emotionally respond with vengeance, so He commands these cities of refuge to be localized. “lest the avenger of blood, while his anger is hot, pursue the manslayer and overtake him, because the way is long, and kill him, though he was not deserving of death, since he had not hated the victim in time past. Therefore, I command you, saying, ‘You shall separate three cities for yourself.’” Deuteronomy 19:6-7
Not only does he provide refuge for one who unintentionally killed their neighbor He also provides time for those offended to settle their hearts with the offender out of their presence. The Lord also provides judgment in case the killing isn’t accidental. The Lord knows and puts things into place to help if we choose to follow His lead.
Know this, the Father knows our hearts and our needs. Don’t forget that. In tough times call out to Him. All times call out to Him. Let Him be your avenger, let him be your leader, and let Him be your comforter.
-To Know Jesus. To Live on Mission.