Raise a Banner

The Olympics are on! A feast of rampant triumphalism as nations and their commentators try to outdo one another. Heroes are made and vanquished and banners fly everywhere. Silver and Gold isn’t good enough it has to be Gold, Gold, Gold!

Many years ago Joshua found himself in a contest, but in his case it really was life and death. He led the Israelites in a battle with the Amalekites, and while the battle raged Moses looked on from the hilltop supported by Aaron and Hur. Joshua won the battle and returned to Moses who then erected his own banner. But this one didn’t honour Joshua, or even Israel. His banner, was named Jehovah Nissi – the Lord is my Banner! What did he mean – come on Sunday and find out!