During the long wilderness wanderings, God provided the Israelites with manna from heaven. A gomer (approx. 4 liters) of this “grain of heaven” was placed in a golden jar, which was brought into the presence of God and later placed in the Ark of the Covenant (Ex 16:33; Heb 9:4). When the Israelites entered the land of Canaan, the manna no longer fell from heaven (Josh 5:12). But the hidden manna in the jar reminded them of what had nourished and strengthened them daily during their wilderness journey.

The manna is a picture of the Lord Jesus, who came down from heaven to earth and is now our food (Jn 6:48-51). As we walk through the world, which faith perceives as a desert, we receive strength when we occupy ourselves with the Lord Jesus. In glory, our faith no longer needs strengthening: the desert journey is over, and the manna of the soul is no longer needed. But the overcomers will then receive “the hidden manna” (Revelation 2:17).

This means that in heaven we will joyfully remember what the Lord was for us on earth with its many problems. We will look back on the time when His perfect life and unique ministry strengthened and encouraged us. In the sunlight of eternity, our memories of this will blossom into beauty beyond imagination! It must be great to fully enjoy how He lived on this earth for the Father’s glory!