MOSES
Moses is one of the most significant figures in the Bible, renowned as a leader, prophet, lawgiver, and deliverer. He is revered by the Israelites and traditionally credited with authoring the Pentateuch – the first five books of the Bible. From his birth, Moses’ life was marked by divine intervention. During a time when Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, decreed that all newborn Hebrew boys be killed to curb the Israelite population, Moses was born.
Preservation and Adoption:
Moses’ mother, Jochebed, hid him for three months. When she could no longer conceal him, she placed him in a basket and set it adrift on the Nile River. By divine providence, Pharaoh’s daughter discovered the basket, felt compassion for the baby, and adopted him. Thus, Moses was raised in Pharaoh’s palace, receiving an Egyptian prince’s education and upbringing (Ex 2:1-10).
THE TURNING POINT AND EXILE
Intervention and Flight:
At the age of forty, Moses saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew. In a moment of anger and solidarity with his people, he killed the Egyptian and hid the body in the sand. When this act became known, Moses fled to Midian to escape Pharaoh’s wrath (Ex 2:11-15). In Midian, he lived for forty years, married Zipporah, the daughter of Jethro, and worked as a shepherd (Ex 2:16-22).
The Burning Bush:
At eighty years old, while tending his flock on Mount Horeb, Moses encountered God in a burning bush. God called him to return to Egypt to lead the Israelites out of slavery. Despite his initial reluctance, Moses accepted the mission (Ex 3-4).
Confrontation and Deliverance:
Returning to Egypt, Moses confronted Pharaoh, demanding the release of the Israelites. Pharaoh’s refusal led to the ten plagues, demonstrating God’s power and devastating Egypt. The final plague, the death of the firstborn, compelled Pharaoh to release the Israelites (Ex 7-12).
THE EXODUS AND COVENANT
Crossing the Red Sea:
Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, and through the miraculous parting of the Red Sea, they escaped the pursuing Egyptian army, marking the start of their journey to the Promised Land (Ex 14).
Mount Sinai and the Ten Commandments:
At Mount Sinai, God gave Moses the Ten Commandments, establishing a covenant with the Israelites. These commandments became the foundation of Israelite law and ethics (Ex 19-20).
Leadership and Trials:
Moses guided the Israelites through the wilderness for forty years, facing numerous challenges, including rebellions, complaints, and the need for provisions. Despite the people’s disobedience, Moses remained their leader and intercessor before God (Num 14, Ex 32-34).
Viewing the Promised Land:
When the Israelites neared the Promised Land, God allowed Moses to see it from Mount Nebo but did not permit him to enter due to a previous act of disobedience (Num 20:12, Deut 34:1-4). Moses died at 120 in Moab, and the Bible records that God Himself buried Moses in an unknown grave (Deut 34:5-7).
Posthumous Appearance:
Centuries later, Moses appeared in the Promised Land during the Transfiguration of Jesus, along with Elijah, symbolizing the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets in the Messiah (Mt 17:1-3).
REFLECTION
Moses’ life exemplifies faith, obedience, and perseverance. His journey from prince to shepherd, leader to lawgiver, and his intimate relationship with God offer valuable lessons for Christians today:
1. Faith in God’s Plan: Trust in God’s timing and purposes, even when circumstances seem insurmountable. Moses’ life was preserved and guided by God for a greater purpose.
2. Obedience to God’s Call: Respond to God’s call with faith and obedience. Moses initially hesitated but ultimately fulfilled his mission, leading to the deliverance of his people.
3. Perseverance in Trials: Persevere through trials and challenges, knowing that God is with you. Moses faced numerous difficulties but remained steadfast in his leadership.
4. Intercession and Advocacy: Be an intercessor and advocate for others. Moses continually interceded for the Israelites, seeking God’s mercy and guidance on their behalf.
5. Living by God’s Word: Uphold the commandments and teachings of God. The Ten Commandments given through Moses remain foundational for ethical and moral living.
Moses’ life reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of their past, to accomplish His purposes. As Christians, we are called to live faithfully, obediently, and courageously, trusting in God’s plan for our lives.