The final chapters of Deuteronomy reflect on the past but do so with a forward-looking perspective. As the Israelites stand on the edge of the Jordan River, there is a sobering recognition that they will eventually break the covenant and be exiled from the land. Yet, amidst this reality, there is also hope. 

Moses reassures the Israelites that even in exile, they can turn back to God, who will “circumcise their hearts,” enabling them to love Him fully (Deuteronomy 30:6). This metaphor points to the deeper issue of their stubborn hearts, similar to humanity’s rebellion since the Garden of Eden. Like all people, Israel has chosen to define good and evil for themselves, leading to destruction. However, Moses promises that God will one day transform their hearts, allowing them to love and obey Him, a hope later echoed by prophets like Jeremiah and Ezekiel. Notwithstanding, the future holds the promise of a new covenant that God will establish with His people, along with the coming of a prophet greater than Moses (Hebrews 3:1-6). 

Unlike Moses, who could not enter the Promised Land and died, Jesus entered Heaven and secured our entry through His death. While the law Moses wrote condemns our sin, Jesus perfectly fulfilled it on our behalf. Just as Moses blessed Israel despite their disobedience, we receive the blessing of Christ even in our sins (Romans 5:8). This is the good news: Moses’ song that should remind us of punishment and exile is one we no longer have to sing. Instead, we can sing a new song of gratitude to Jesus for saving us from sin and death.