Yitro/Jethro
Exodus 18:1-20:26
Isaiah 6:1-7:6; 9:5-6
As I read today’s portions, I couldn’t help but notice that they contain some classic verses that are oft quoted. They represented very significant thoughts and truths that we carry as the people of the Living God. I can memorize them; quote them; sing them, ‘theologize’ them, and be moved by them; but do I let them change me? In chapter 6 of Isaiah beginning in verse 9, after Isaiah is taken up and experiences one of the ultimate moments flesh and blood can enter into, he is given these words to deliver to the children of Israel:
“He said, “Go and tell this people: “‘Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.’ Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed.”
Not what I had hoped for; I was expecting an ‘invitation’ to this same experience! Like God saying through Isaiah: “Go tell my people, to come up and be with Me and see what you have just seen!” It’s kind of the ‘mirror’ of what happened when Moses was standing on the glorious sea of glass (the same place John was taken on Patmos) …and yet down below, the people were worshiping a golden calf. Maybe it’s not enough for our leaders or faith history to have great experiences that we can quote or discuss…but let’s get past any personal condemnation here and realize God’s heart; this is what He wants for each of us; not a select few. In Exodus 19 He says: “…you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people…and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation”. Notice He doesn’t just say you will have priests; not just a priestly class; a nation of priests!
Lord, through Holy Spirit help us read of the men and women of God that have entered into those living encounters with You and begin to see the open doors available to us; as You beckon us to come and be with you; to sup with you, even as Moses did. May you have the kingdom of priests; a holy nation, that you have always yearned for… by john e
You shall be holy; because I am holy…(this is a promise more than a commandment)
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