In Joshua 22:26, we read: "Therefore we said, Let us now prepare to build us an altar, not for burnt offering, nor for sacrifice." This verse comes from a critical moment in the history of Israel, when the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh returned to the land east of the Jordan River after assisting their fellow Israelites in conquering Canaan. They faced potential misunderstanding from the other tribes regarding their intent in building an altar. Their response serves as a profound reminder for us today about what it means to worship authentically and to create spaces for connection to God.

At first glance, the act of building an altar seems straightforward, a literal place of worship set aside for offerings and sacrifices. However, the tribes clarified that their intent was not to engage in the traditional sacrifices associated with the temple in Jerusalem. This intentional decision was rooted in the desire to maintain their identity and unity with the larger community of Israel, communicating that they were still part of God's people, even from afar.

The desire to build an altar "not for burnt offering, nor for sacrifice" reflects a deeper, more profound need for connection. It shows a yearning for a physical manifestation of faith and relationship with God—something that extends beyond the rituals of worship. Their altar was not for the sacrificial system of the past; rather, it represented a new understanding of what it meant to be in communion with God and with one another, signifying a space for remembrance, repentance, and community identity.

In our lives, we often create symbolic 'altars' where we express our faith. These altars may not be physical structures but can take the form of rituals, prayers, or commitments that draw us closer to God and help us remain connected to our faith community. Like the tribes of Israel, we must ask ourselves what type of worship we engage in. Is it merely a series of rituals that we perform? Or is it an authentic expression of our relationship with God that invites others into that same fellowship?

Moreover, this realization hits at the heart of community and identity. The risk when building an altar is that it can sometimes create division—either through misunderstanding or differing interpretations of worship. Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe understood the potential for factionalism, and it is a powerful reminder for us to be vigilant against disunity among believers. Our worship should always seek to strengthen the bonds of unity among God's people rather than creating barriers.

The building of this altar became a symbol of their faithfulness to God and a declaration that they, too, were a part of His promises. In our pursuit of God, we should also become bridges rather than barriers—calling our families, friends, and communities towards a life of faith that transcends geographical, cultural, and denominational boundaries. We should reclaim and rebuild our altars, not merely as sites for offerings of old, but as testimonies of God’s work in our lives and collective identity as His followers.

So, what does it mean to build an altar in our lives today? It means creating spaces in our hearts, homes, and communities where the presence of God can be acknowledged and honored. It means engaging in worship that goes beyond mere ritual—understanding that our lives are living sacrifices (Romans 12:1), reflecting our devotion and relationship with Christ.

Let us meditate on the significance of the altars we construct. Are they rooted in authenticity, remembrance, and connection? May our altars reflect unity in Christ, drawing us not only nearer to God but to one another. May we boldly declare our faith, building places of worship that honor God and invite others into the transformative experience of His love.