A Family Banner

So the people of Israel did everything as the Lord had commanded Moses. Each clan and family set up camp and marched under their banners exactly as the Lord had instructed them. ~ Numbers 2:34

This verse really struck me. As was repeated over and over, the tribes were following God's directions exactly and completely, including the making of, flying, camping under, and marching under of family banners.

What did these banners look like?

Wendy's comments are full of information. Jan from TN quotes Vernon McGee and describes these banners. He says that Judah's banner featured a lion, that Reuben's had a man's head on it, Ephraim had an ox, and Dan's had an eagle. McGee notes that these line up with Ezekiel 1:10. Grace and Peace quotes Courson and says that from the air, the encampment would have been shaped like a massive cross.

If you read on to today's comments, Karen from Basel describes the significance of the colors used for securing the Tabernacle pieces for transport. I wonder how these might have been used in the banners?

At MOPS they talk about how important it is for our families to have our own traditions and identy; how this will help our children feel secure now and confident moving out on their own when the time comes. Thinking visually, if our families were to have a banner now, what would it look like? What rallying point do we have? What sets us apart and identifies us as belonging to each other? What mark would we camp out under and fly proudly as we follow God?

I think my family might just have to create one of these. I like the idea of this rallying point. Even more, I like what the author of Psalm 20 has to say about it. I see a project just waiting to happen .....

What would be on YOUR family banner?


In times of trouble, may the Lord answer your cry.
May the name of the God of Jacob keep you safe from all harm.
May He send you help from His sanctuary
and strengthen you from Jerusalem.
May He remember all your gifts
and look favorably on all your burnt offernings.

May He grant you your heart's desires
and make all your plans succeed.
May we shout for joy when we hear of Your victory
and raise a victory banner in the name of our God.
May the Lord answer all your prayers.