Family Banners

"Each clan and family set up camp and marched under their banners exactly as the LORD had instructed them." Numbers 2:34b

Do you remember having to design a family coat of arms in school? Maybe I'm dating myself. I don't know if students still have this activity as part of their lessons. This was a visual representation of familial values. The symbols chosen highlighted the things that were most important to your family. It helped define your identity. Someone looking at it would know immediately what was held in top priority as each item reflected the core character and conduct of your heritage. 

Just like golden arches identify a specific chain of restaurants, each object on the banners was a marker that helped with quick and easy association. Similar to other trademarks and logos we see today that allow us to instantly connect our minds to precise brands, they were customized and recognized by others. Slogans can also provide a method of grouping similar items. Virtually everyone becomes familiar with a catchy phrase or advertising jingle that immediately links our thoughts to a product, place or service.

Usually, some unique artistry appeared on the front of these standards or shields. All those carrying the same crests were from the same clan. They were a symbol of unity. Not only were they identification, they provided protection. I love this connection to protection within the family.

As we read about the LORD's instructions through Moses and Aaron to the Israelites, we repeatedly see how the tribal divisions were to camp under their family banners. These distinguishable markers bore emblems that united particular tribal divisions. It seems no one knows with certainty what colours and figures they depicted but they were peculiar to their tribe and individual to each of the four Israelite troops that positioned themselves around the Tabernacle.

If you were creating a family banner today, what would you include? What images or words would give testimony to what your tribe treasures? What picture would best personify the core of your heart?

In Exodus 17:15 we read that God's name is Yahweh-Nissi, The Lord is my Banner. As believers, He is the One under whom we unite. We are rescued by Him and identified in Him. For those who abide in His presence, beneath His banner, He provides protection. When others see us may they know immediately whose banner we live under and may we be faithful ambassadors as Christians who carry Christ's name.