July 27 2023
Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet God. They took their stand at the foot of the mountain. Now Mount Sinai was wrapped in smoke, because the Lord had descended upon it in fire; the smoke went up like the smoke of a kiln, while the whole mountain shook violently. As the blast of the trumpet grew louder and louder, Moses would speak and God would answer him in thunder.
From Exodus 19:1-2,9-11,16-20 NRSV
The people of Israel had endured much suffering and uncertainty, but their endurance brought them to this point of great reward. Through the covenant to be made made between God and Moses, the people of Israel are to become God’s own people. The whole event is described in spectacular, even terrifying ways. Some of the most awesome and frightening aspects of nature such as fire, thunder, lightning and earthquake indicate that something exceptional is taking place. Anyone who comes to stand at the foot of the mountain has had to undergo purification. It is Moses alone who will ascend the mountain to converse with God. Despite the apparent dangers, Moses had the courage to ascend the mountain and to represent his people before God. Perhaps at this point, Moses needed to remember that his God was not just a God of power and might but also a God of mercy and kindness.
- What do you make of God’s presence being symbolised in such dramatic, even frightening ways?
- When have you stood in awe before the presence of God?
Pray for all leaders in our churches; that they will have faith in God’s will for his people and the courage to bring this about.
