Moses is up on the mountain for 40 days.  God is instructing him on all the details for the tabernacle, the priest's clothing, the ceremonies, the incense, and writing with His own Hand the 10 Commandments for His people.  He is a God of detail!  This detail takes time....too much time for the impatient Isrealites.  They insist that Aaron create for them a golden calf to worship.  You know, the one where Aaron simply threw the gold into the fire and out came the calf!  (Thou shalt not lie).  The Isrealites give credit to false gods for bringing them out of Egypt.  They were so excited!  They feasted and celebrated and offered sacrifices to this calf.  What were they thinking?  Had they not been led thru the Red Sea on dry ground?  Had they not had their fill of manna and quail day after day?  Didn't water appear when they thirsted?  What happened to their belief in the true God of Isreal?

Before I judge the Isrealites too harshly, I need to take a look at myself.  I may not mold an idol out of gold;  but am I ever guilty of trying to mold God into my image?  Do I make Him fit my expectations or circumstances?  Doesn't this mean that I end up worshipping myself instead of my true God?  What idol do I need to destroy in order to worship the awesome God Who delivered me from my bondage to sin?

Moses steps in and intercedes for the people.  Did God change His mind in the same way that I change my mind with my children?  I think God remained consistent with His nature.  When God first wanted to destroy the Isrealites, He was acting according to His justice.  Moses interceded, and then God acted according to His mercy.  I'm thankful for Moses interceding for his people;  and I'm especially thankful for Jesus...the Great Interceder for all.

Thursday challenge:  These examples of interceding are acts of mercy.  Find an opportunity to intercede for someone today. 

Morgen