NUMBERS 27:18-20 : And the Lord said to Moses: “Take Joshua the son of Nun with you, a man in
whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand on him; set him before Eleazar the priest and before all the
congregation, and inaugurate him in their sight. And you shall give some of your authority to him, that
all the congregation of the children of Israel maybe obedient.’’
A family had a valuable antique vase that had been handed down through several generations. It was
kept on the mantel in the living room as a special object of enjoyment.
One day the mother came home and was greeted by her daughter’s question, “Mother, you know
that vase which you told us has been passed down from generation to generation?” “Yes,” her mother
acknowledged. “Well,” said the girl, “this generation just dropped it.”
When passing treasures to the next generation, a real danger exists that something we value might
get dropped. Moses was aware of that. When it came time to pass the mantel of leadership on, God
directed him specifically in how he should do it.
This process began with a worthy recipient. Moses was instructed to take Joshua, “a man in whom is
the Spirit” (v. 18). Furthermore, it was to be a public process before all the congregation (v. 19) so
that no one could be accused of behind-the-scenes wheeling and dealing. And finally, it was a
gradual process.
Moses was to give some of his authority to Joshua (v. 20). This gave the young man the opportunity
to begin to practice the art of leadership while still under the guidance of an experienced mentor.
Begin now to pass on to your loved ones those things that are of value to you. As a Christian, the
most valuable asset you possess is your faith. Make sure your family knows where you stand with
Christ.
Share with them openly what your faith means to you. Encourage them and mentor them so that they
can follow in your footsteps. Don’t let the greatest treasure you possess get dropped.
DON’T “PASS ON” WITHOUT FIRST PASSING IT ON.