Friday 6 June 2025
On the third new moon after the Israelites had gone out of the land of Egypt, on that very day, they came into the wilderness of Sinai. (v. 1)
Background
The book of Exodus tells how the Israelites escaped slavery in Egypt. After all the high drama of the earlier chapters, the Israelites have arrived at Mount Sinai, their intended destination from the moment they left Egypt.
In chapter 3, when the Israelites' leader Moses is stood before the burning bush on Mount Horeb, God tells him that once he has brought the people out of Egypt he is to come to worship God on this mountain. It is commonly held that Horeb and Sinai are the same mountain, although the lack of records mean that it is impossible to definitively prove this, in the same way that we cannot be absolutely sure where these mountains were.
The Israelites' arrival at Sinai marks a significant transition in the story of Israel as it marks the moment that they turn from a rescued people to a covenant nation, a priestly kingdom and a holy nation – a far cry from the enslaved people of three months previously. It is also a place where they will be able to rest and recuperate, as they do not move again for a year.
It is here that the Israelites will learn about the future constitution of the nation, as Moses mediates for them with God on his seven journeys up and down the mountain.
After his first trip up and down the mountain Moses tells the people what God has told him. Their united response "Everything that the Lord has spoken we will do" (v. 8) shows their willingness to enter into a covenant with God. Although it will not be long before this willingness is challenged.
In this first encounter between God and Moses, before any covenant or giving of laws, God affirms that the Israelites' identity begins with God’s grace. It is God’s actions and not the actions of the people that set them apart.
To Ponder:
- God bore the Israelites on eagles' wings (v. 4). When has God carried you on eagles’ wings in your life?
- What does it look like to be a 'priestly kingdom' in modern Britain?
- How do we, as a Church, prepare to encounter God?
Prayer
Gracious God, thank you for calling us to be your holy people. Help us to live in your grace, serve others faithfully, and prepare our hearts to meet you daily. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Stuart Reed
Stuart is a presbyter in the South East Cornwall Circuit and lives in Looe with his wife and their labrador. He is currently on a mission to find the best pasty and icecream in Cornwall.