Exodus 2.1-22, Mark 14.32-52 - Lectionary for 3/22/10 - Monday, Lent 5

Today's readings are Exodus 2.1-22 and Mark 14.32-52.

In Exodus chapter 2 we are introduced to Moses.  Born of humble parentage, from the house of Levi, Moses originally was under a death sentence.  The standing orders were to execute Hebrew male children.  Yet Moses' mother hid him as long as possible then took what seemed like desperate measures to try preserving his life.  With Moses' sister watching, Moses was picked up by the daughter of Pharaoh.   The baby needed a nurse, so Moses' sister was able to bring his mother.  Moses was therefore able to be brought up by his own mother, doubtless learning about God's covenant with His people.  

Because Moses was adopted by Pharaoh's daughter he ended up being instructed in all the wisdom of the Egyptians.  He was elevated to royal rank.  It appears that Moses was known as an Egyptian, though he seemed to be known to the Hebrews in verse 13 as a Hebrew, not a genuine Egyptian.  Yet there is no doubt that Moses had rank and privilege.  But rank and privilege aren't all they are cut out to be.  They may not be helpful to us at times.  See that just as anyone would, Moses was under threat of death after he had killed an Egyptian and tried to hide his actions.  Just like anyone else could, Moses became a fugitive from the law.

Is God's hand on us when we are elevated to authority?  Is his hand on us when we become fugitives?  We would do better to ask when God's hand stops guiding us and protecting us.  In fact, we understand with Paul that nothing can separate us from God's love (Romans 8).  We are truly God's sons by adoption (John 1).  And unlike Pharaoh's sons, who must flee from him when they sin, God's sons come to him in faith to receive forgiveness for their sin (1 John 1).  Moses' interaction with Pharaoh, his sin of murder, changed his life forever.  He was driven to the next step in his life of service to God.  We likewise see our circumstances as ways the Lord directs us.  Even our sins and their consequences have an influence on the way we will progress in our life and work.  May the Lord grant that we ever look to him and his provision, confessing our sins, seeing the love our Father has lavished upon us, walking in faith, knowing that he has provided for us in the past and will continue to provide for us forever.