In this Sunday's Epistle, St. Paul talks about Israel as they moved from the bondage of Egypt, through the desert, and to the promised land.  While on the way, the people were sustained by God through the divine gifts of water, manna, and quail.  In spite of God's mercies, many hardened their hearts against God.  As a result, many died in the desert before entering the promised land. 

 

St. Paul then tells us that these people and these events serve as examples to us.  They teach us.  We are in a position very much like those who were in the desert.  We have been delivered from bondage (sin) and are being brought through a hostile place (the world).  Along the way, we are sustained by God's divine gifts of Word and Sacrament.  In the end, we will come to the promised land, Heaven itself, and there receive all that God has promised.