For three days the people of Israel had trudged on without finding fresh water, so they were overjoyed at last to catch sight of a quiet pool. Those in front rushed to get a drink but at once the eagerness on their faces changed to expressions of sour disgust. The water tasted horrible! “Do something, Moses,” they begged, and Moses asked God to help. God showed him a piece of wood lying near by and Moses threw it into the water. The bitter taste vanished and they were all able to drink. At their next camping-place there was no water at all. All angry crowds came to find Moses. “Give us water,” they threatened, “Why did you bring us here to die of thirst?” Moses was worried and little afraid. The people were angry and some of them even picked up large stones ready to throw at him. “Take your stick,” God said, “and go with the leaders of the people to a rock that I will show you. Hit that rock with your stick.” Moses did just as God said. When he struck the rock with his stick, fresh clear water spurted out, gushing freely for all to drink and quench their thirst.
Water in the Desert
