October 24 / Exodus 32

Exodus 32

Dear RTB’ers,

I am touched by Moses’ leadership in this “golden calf” incident. First, when he sees God’s anger, he implores Him not to destroy the people for what they have done. But Moses implored the LORD his God and said, …“Turn from Your burning anger and relent from this disaster against Your people.” (vv. 11a, 12b) But his own anger against the people was real: And as soon as he came near the camp and saw the calf and the dancing, Moses’ anger burned hot, and he threw the tablets out of his hands and broke them at the foot of the mountain. (v. 19) Still, Moses was able to contain his anger and do what he could to resolve their sin before the Lord. The next day Moses said to the people, “You have sinned a great sin. And now I will go up to the LORD; perhaps I can make atonement for your sin.” (v. 30) Finally, Moses’ plea before the LORD includes a willingness to forego his own relationship with God: “But now, if You will, forgive their sin—but if not, please blot me out of Your book that You have written.” (v. 32) Moses’ offer of his own life calls to mind Paul’s admission in Romans 9:3, For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my kinsmen according to the flesh. What a fine example of Moses’ leadership we see in today’s reading.

Blessings!


See also: January 27 (2023) / Exodus 32-34

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