Wednesday 10 July 2024
God looked upon the Israelites, and God took notice of them. (v. 25)
Background
As we end chapter 2 of Exodus a lot has happened. Moses, who was brought up by the Egyptian Pharoah's daughter, has become an adult. Finding out about his true Israelite heritage, he decided to try to help his people. It led to an altercation with an Egyptian who Moses killed.
Moses realised he'd been found out when he challenged two Hebrews who were fighting. Perhaps they saw Moses as the man who had been raised in the Pharaoh’s palace rather than one of their own, but nevertheless Moses decided to flee from Egypt. He went to live in Midian. Here he became a shepherd and married. He had a son, Gershom, and the suggestion is that Moses is now settled into a wholly different life.
The chapter ends reporting that, after a long period of time, the king of Egypt has died. We are told that God hears the groanings of the Israelites and, remembering his covenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, looks on them with concern. Chapter three starts with the encounter of Moses at the burning bush, as God reveals himself.
Yesterday we thought about the questions we ask or are asked about where is God in the midst of all that's going on in our world and in our lives. The passage today reminds us that God hears our groaning. God hears our cry for help and finds a way of reaching out.
It may be that you are called, as Moses was, to become an agent of God to help those in need. It is important to remember that God can do all things through us and even if we feel our lives have become settled God has a habit of using us at the right time for the right people. Or it may be that you are looking for such a person to enter your life, so you too may be reminded the God hears your prayer. If this is you, know that in your waiting God is already at work.
To Ponder:
- Who may we be sent to, on behalf of God, as a help in times of need this week?
- If we are waiting for help how may, we like the Psalmist, make our requests known to God?
Prayer
Today I pray to be used by God in service to God and to others. I pray for those needing help to know God hears their cry and is truly concerned. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Mark Carrick
Mark is a presbyter in the Derbyshire North East Circuit, and is currently the minister of Central, Barlborough and Clowne churches. His passion is for ministry within the community and growing disciples within the Church. Mark has now served four years in the Methodist Church and is preparing to become Superintendent in 2025.