Day 32 - Finding Faith in the Midst of Hardship (Exodus 1 - 4, 1 Chronicles 6) - Year 2
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TODAY'S READING:

• Exodus 1, Exodus 2, 1 Chronicles 6:1-3, Exodus 3, Exodus 4:1-17

WORD OF THE DAY:

-  Protest

Today, as we delve into the books of Exodus and 1 Chronicles, we find ourselves transported back to a pivotal moment in biblical history, about 300 years after Joseph. The Israelites, once favored in Egypt, are now subjected to slavery and harsh decrees under a Pharaoh who has forgotten Joseph's contributions. This period is marked by harsh trials, yet it is also a time of immense faith and resilience.

The Courage of Moses' Family

In Hebrews 11:23, we read about the extraordinary faith of Moses' parents. They defied Pharaoh's edict to kill all Hebrew male infants, hiding Moses for three months. Their act of faith and disobedience sets a powerful precedent. Similarly, Shiphrah and Puah, two midwives, bravely allowed Hebrew boys to live, going against Pharaoh’s orders. These acts of defiance highlight the strength of conviction over fear.

Moses: A Life of Struggle and Identity

Born a Hebrew, raised in Pharaoh's palace, and later fleeing to Midian, Moses lived as a foreigner in many worlds. His son’s name, Gershom, means "a foreigner there." It symbolizes Moses’ perpetual state of not belonging. 

The Burning Bush: A Call to Action

A defining moment occurs when God appears to Moses in a burning bush and tasks him with leading the Israelites out of Egypt. Moses' response is not of immediate acceptance but of protest. He questions his abilities and worthiness. This interaction reveals a profound truth: often, we are called to tasks that seem beyond our capacity, yet it is not in our strength but in God’s presence that we find the ability to act.

The Power of Protest

The word 'protest' takes on significant meaning in these chapters. Moses repeatedly protests his assignment, embodying the human tendency to doubt and question. Each protest is met with reassurance from God, emphasizing that it is not Moses alone who will act, but God through Moses.

Divine Intervention and Remembrance

In Exodus 2:23-24, we see a shift as God hears the groaning of the Israelites and remembers His covenant. The verbs used here – heard, remembered, looked, knew – signify a God deeply involved and responsive to His people's plight. This divine intervention is a reminder of God's faithfulness and active presence in our struggles.

The Reluctant Leader

Moses, a simple shepherd at the time of his calling, embodies the reluctant leader. His questions to God – "Who am I to appear before Pharaoh?" and "Who am I to lead the Israelites?" – are met with a simple yet profound assurance: "I will be with you." This narrative teaches us that our capabilities are not as important as the presence and guidance of God in our endeavors.

Personal Reflection: Writing "From Dust and Ashes"

My personal journey as an author mirrors Moses' story of doubt and divine calling. When I began writing "From Dust and Ashes," I was a young mother with limited knowledge of World War II. Yet, like Moses, I found reassurance not in my own abilities but in the calling and presence of God. 

Embracing Our Callings

As we reflect on these chapters, let's embrace the lessons of faith, protest, and divine calling. Let us remember that in our moments of doubt and fear, we are not alone. God's presence and promise, "I will be with you," is a constant source of strength and guidance. May we find courage in our callings, no matter how daunting they may seem.

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