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The Heart of Christ
In the days after Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, his disciples struggled to make sense of the Read More
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Beth A. Richardson | Read Exodus 33:12-23
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Sign Up TodayIn today’s reading the people of Israel are in a time of crisis. They have broken their covenant with God by making golden idols. God has called the people of Israel “stiff-necked” and is considering sending them into the Promised Land alone. (See 33:3, 5.)
But Moses argues with God...
Reflect on the places in your life where you feel you are in a wilderness. Where are you seeing glimpses of God’s good work in the world? Write a prayer of yearning and gratitude.
Popular images often portray God as a passive grandfather figure. However, this is not the picture scripture provides. God’s presence has a profound impact on the physical world. In Exodus, Moses feels insecure about the calling on his life and asks to see God’s glory. God in part grants this request, but no one can experience the presence of God completely and live. The psalmist describes how God is exalted and how God’s holiness shakes the earth itself. The New Testament readings explore different themes. Paul opens his letter to the Thessalonians by commending them for their faith and partnership in the spreading of the gospel. In Matthew, the Pharisees attempt to trap Jesus in his words, yet he confounds their efforts.
Read Exodus 33:12-23. When have you struggled to believe that God is with you? How did you find a sign of God’s presence?
Read Psalm 99. How has God heard your cry? How can you listen with God for the cries of others?
Read 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10. When does your faith call you to live in a countercultural way? How do you show the world how to live?
Read Matthew 22:15-22. You belong to God. How do you feel God’s call on your life?
Respond by posting a prayer.
I join many of those who will pray for you as you seek to discern what you are called to be at this moment. May God grant you the courage to fulfill that calling. May we all open our eyes and see the misery, open our ears and hear the cries of God’s people, and, like God through the Lord Jesus Christ, be incarnate amongst them.”
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