Exodus 3-6
Yesterday, my sermon was based on Hebrews 3-4, where Jesus is described as the One who can help us
enter God’s “rest.” Though Moses couldn't lead the people of God or himself into the Promised Land
(God’s “rest”), I took great pains to show how great he was.
But reading these chapters reminds me that God does indeed call flawed people.
• Moses feels inadequate (who doesn't?), and says, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and
bring the children of Israel out of Egypt.” (3:11)
• Moses sounds confused when he asks the Lord, “Whom shall I say sent me?” (3:13)
• Moses sounds skeptical as he says, “They will not believe me!” (4:1)
• Moses is aware of his weaknesses when he complains, “O Lord, I am not eloquent!” (4:10)
• And Moses betrays his reluctance with, “Please send someone else!” (4:13)
After his initial conversation with the Lord, we learn that Moses had not obeyed God by circumcising his
son. Had not his wife, Zipporah, stepped in, Exodus would have had a different protagonist! (4:24-26)
Though, by the end of today’s reading Moses has stepped up to the plate—he (and Aaron) have made
their first contact with Pharaoh and have endured Pharoah’s first harsh response (Make brick without
straw!)—he is still having issues: “Behold, I am of uncircumcised lips. How will Pharaoh listen to me?”
All this goes to show that God is a God who can use anybody, even a reluctant, self-doubting,
disobedient, confused man with a low self-respect like Moses…or me.
Until tomorrow,
Pastor Gary
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