Then Reuben, Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh replied to the heads of the clans of Israel: "The Mighty One, God, the Lord! The Mighty One, God, the Lord! He knows! And let Israel know! If this has been in rebellion or disobedience to the Lord, do not spare us this day. Joshua 22:21-22
The job they set out to do was finished.
Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh were free to return to the land which Moses had given them east of the Jordan. From all appearances, the first thing they did upon arrival was direct rebellion against God. They built an altar when God had commanded the people to only sacrifice offerings at the tabernacle.
The reaction of the other tribes reflected a good thing, a strong desire to follow the Lord. They prepared to destroy their brothers, however, without knowing the whole story. The altar was not for sacrifice. It was for remembrance. Future generations would see it and remember their spiritual heritage. God knew this. He knew their hearts. If their intentions had been otherwise, He might have taken the matter into His own hands.
Why are we so quick to judge sometimes? Only God knows a man's heart. There are circumstances in which we cannot trust what we see.
Lord, help me to not judge others simply by appearances. There are many things I might not understand that honor You. Give me a mind that is open to new ways, and give me a heart that is only focused on You. May You be pleased with the worship You receive, no matter how different from mine.
You are worthy of ALL praise!