Exodus 24:8-18 - Lectionary for Transfiguration, Cycle A

2/21/17
Many churches throughout the world use a Bible reading schedule called a "lectionary." It's just a fancy word meaning "selected readings." Posts like this reflect on the readings for an upcoming Sunday or other Church holiday, as found in the three-year lectionary.

In our Old Testament reading for Transfiguration, Exodus 24:8-18, God calls Moses and the elders of Israel to enter into his presence. He later calls Moses farther up the mountain to receive commands.

The presence of God is a frightful thing. When the elders of Israel are in the presence of God, he is astounding to them. notice that Moses says God did not lay a hand on the elders. He appeared in his mercy.

When God calls Moses up into his presence, his appearance is truly terrifying. He is in unapproachable light. He hides himself for the protection of his people. He also appoints people to resolve disputes while Moses is gone.

It is telling that God appoints a means of dispute resolution while he is giving his Law through Moses. The people will need it. Even at the foot of God’s mountain, we are ready to engage in our own quarrels, our disputes, our petty disagreements. We want our own way. And we want it now.

Thanks be to God that he speaks to his people. We receive his laws, which are for our good. We receive his protective hand. He distances himself from us so his glory will not destroy us. He provides a mediator. Moses, then, but now, in these last days, Jesus, who declares God to us.

May the Lord have mercy on us while we wait at the foot of his mountain.

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