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“And when he that doth flee unto one of those cities shall stand at the entering of the gate of the city, and shall declare his cause in the ears of the elders of that city, they shall take him into the city unto them, and give him a place, that he may dwell among them.” It is amazing how God displays His character in every action and instruction. His mercy was built into the plans for Israel! These cities of refuge display His concern for justice in the lives of the falsely accused. Many will read through the Old Testament, seeing only the “harsh” judgment of God. Believers should observe instead His wonderful, loving attributes. In a sinful culture, the accused are often treated with immediate condemnation, with no regard to their actual guilt or innocence. God chose to grant them a place of mercy, fair trial, and a chance for safety. This did not change the hearts of the people, but it did give them a system within which they could operate, maintaining a Godly level of fairness. I wonder how well we would work within the system if we lived in a city of refuge? Would we feel comfortable with accused murderers “dwelling among” us? That’s what I was wondering as I read this verse. Do you have an answer?