January 29 – February 4, 2017

I want to be rescued.

But I don’t want to face trials. Or difficulties. Or my fears.

That’s the story of the Israelites as God brings them out of Egypt. It’s likely the same problem we have today. “Lord, save me; rescue me; comfort me; give me peace. On my terms. With no problems attached.” It is amazing how quickly we lose our courage and perseverance.

You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. (Exodus 19:4)

As the Israelites beg for deliverance, God responds to their cries. He delivers them from the oppression of Pharaoh. Then, time after time, they complain about the manner in which God rescues them. They whine. They grumble. They accuse Moses.

But God is patient and forgiving, and He indulges the Israelites in their needs. And, as He leads them out of Egypt, He begins to define them as a people – His people. He covenants with them (“out of all nations, you will be my treasured possession”), providing them with a set of laws to define them as people (the 10 Commandments). In return, He asks for their loyalty (“Do not make any Gods to be alongside me”) and obedience. And He offers abundant life:

“Worship the Lord your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you, and none will miscarry or be barren in your land. I will give you a full life span.”

That, I would suggest, is the proverbial “offer you can’t refuse.” So, with great fanfare, they pledge their acceptance:

“When Moses went and told the people all the Lord’s words and laws, they responded with one voice, ‘Everything the Lord has said we will do.'” (Exodus 24:3 NIV)

Though pledged in good conscience, their faith will endure only a very short while. With Moses absent, the Israelites allow their fears and insecurities to overcome what they have seen and experienced and know to be true. Forsaking the God who has rescued them, they fashion a God for themselves in the shape of a calf.

And, as might be expected, God’s judgment of their betrayal is swift:

“I have seen these people,” the Lord said to Moses, “and they are a stiff-necked people. Now leave me alone so that my anger may burn against them.” (Exodus 32:10)

And yet, despite His anger, God is merciful. Yes, there are consequences to their sin – 3,000 people die – but, once again, God is forgiving of their human weaknesses.

Ultimately, God reveals His nature and character to them (and to us) through Moses:

“Then the Lord came down in the cloud and stood there with him [Moses] and proclaimed his name, the Lord. And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “‘The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.'” (Exodus 34:6-7 NIV)

This is the God we serve. A compassionate and gracious God; yet He demands our faithfulness. In return, he promises abundant life, His love, and the peace and comfort that accompanies that love. And, when we fail, He is willing to forgive.

Is that an offer you can refuse??