On Desolate Heights
Naomi Craig
Hello, Friend!
Thank you for taking the time to read Balaam's story. As unusual as a talking donkey is, a pagan seer prophesying blessings over Israel seems harder to fathom. At the same time, if Balaam wasn't an Israelite, how do we know his story in the Bible? I imagined Ittai to bridge the gap and to display the saving faith. The Scriptures say that the Israelites climbed to the top of Mt. Pisgah (Numbers 21:20). Balaam also climbed this mountain (Numbers 23:14). This seemed a natural place to have their stories intersect.
The Bible records two places where King Balak tries to engage Balaam's services, and I added a third regarding the elimination of King Sihon. King Sihon had stolen land from King Balak's father, so I felt this would be a good revenge motive.
My hope and prayer is that this story sends you to the scriptures with a deeper understanding of the people who live amongst the pages.
I'm so thankful that the Lord choses to use imperfect people to share His message. Without this grace where would I be?
All my best,
Naomi
Author's Note
Hello, Friend!
Thank you for taking the time to read Balaam's story. As unusual as a talking donkey is, a pagan seer prophesying blessings over Israel seems harder to fathom. At the same time, if Balaam wasn't an Israelite, how do we know his story in the Bible? I imagined Ittai to bridge the gap and to display the saving faith. The Scriptures say that the Israelites climbed to the top of Mt. Pisgah (Numbers 21:20). Balaam also climbed this mountain (Numbers 23:14). This seemed a natural place to have their stories intersect.
The Bible records two places where King Balak tries to engage Balaam's services, and I added a third regarding the elimination of King Sihon. King Sihon had stolen land from King Balak's father, so I felt this would be a good revenge motive.
My hope and prayer is that this story sends you to the scriptures with a deeper understanding of the people who live amongst the pages.
I'm so thankful that the Lord choses to use imperfect people to share His message. Without this grace where would I be?
All my best,
Naomi