In this verse, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh express their concern about future generations potentially questioning their relationship with God. They built an altar, not for offerings, but as a symbol to affirm their shared faith with the other tribes of Israel. This action stemmed from a fear that, due to their geographical separation by the Jordan River, future descendants might be excluded from the community of Israel and its covenant with God.
This passage underscores the importance of maintaining unity and a shared identity among believers, regardless of physical or cultural distances. It serves as a reminder that faith is not confined to a specific location but is a shared spiritual journey. The tribes' proactive step to ensure their descendants remain connected to the larger community of faith is a lesson in foresight and the value of creating tangible symbols of faith and unity. It encourages believers today to foster connections and understanding across different communities and generations, ensuring that the core tenets of faith are preserved and celebrated.