28 July 2021

Moses came down from Mount Sinai. As he came down from the mountain with the two tablets of the covenant in his hand, Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God.

Exodus 34:29-35, NRSV

After his encounter with God on the holy mountain, Moses returned with the two stone tablets signifying the renewed Covenant with God. Although he was unaware of it himself, the skin of his face was radiant. Moses probably felt the great significance of his meeting with God on the mountain, but this physical sign made it clear to others that something out of the ordinary had happened. It is as if something of God’s glory has been transferred to Moses’ face. Perhaps it was understandable that the initial reaction of the people was that of fear and that Moses took to veiling his face when speaking to the people. Rather than basking in this reflected glory, Moses got straight to business, ensuring that the people understood their responsibilities and carrying on his work of leading them.

• • Why do you think Moses veiled his face when talking to the people?
  • What is your experience of feeling God’s presence in your life ?

Pray for all leaders in our church communities and for their faithfulness to God’s will.