EXODUS 19
On the third new moon after the people of Israel had gone out of the land of Egypt, on that day they came into the wilderness of Sinai. 2 They set out from Rephidim and came into the wilderness of Sinai, and they encamped in the wilderness. There Israel encamped before the mountain, 3 while Moses went up to God. The Lord called to him out of the mountain, saying, “Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the people of Israel: 4 ‘You yourselves have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. 5 Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; 6 and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the people of Israel.” 7 So Moses came and called the elders of the people and set before them all these words that the Lord had commanded him. 8 All the people answered together and said, “All that the Lord has spoken we will do.” And Moses reported the words of the people to the Lord. 9 And the Lord said to Moses, “Behold, I am coming to you in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with you, and may also believe you forever.” – Exodus 19:1-3
EXODUS 19 GOD CALLS THE ISRAELITES TO FAITHFULNESS
A poem by ILMA inspired by these verses
As the Israelites arrived in the wilderness of Sinai
God called Moses up to the mountain to instruct him what to say
The Lord reminded his people all the things he had done for them
He demanded their faithfulness to all the commands that he laid down
From a thick cloud, God made himself heard by his own people.
And the Israelites answered and promised that they will do so
We witness how God provided, protected and rescued the Israelites all those years in the wilderness. This time, God laid down his expectations from his people. He wanted to show himself to them, but if he did, they would die, so he hid himself in a thick cloud, but allowed the people to hear his instructions to them through Moses.
The Lord wanted devotion and loyalty to him and obedience to his laws. The Israelites promised that they would do that. It is amazing how God’s steadfast love manifests here.
REFLECTION
- How have you responded to God’s call to faithfulness to him?
