As a Centennial family, we have embarked on a short sermon series in the beginning chapters of Exodus. I have tried to call it (though I use different words every time) something like: God Hears His People—The Call Of Moses The Prophet. As is typical for my spiritual preparation for a new sermon series, I have inundated myself with God’s Word surrounding Exodus chapters 1-3, which has caused a “stuck in my heart” moment, where I find myself referencing, thinking, praying, reading, quoting, sharing, and now writing on different Bible passages near or about Moses. Here are a few thoughts on a “short ask” from this meek man (Numbers 12:3)…
“Moses said, “Please show me your glory.””
Please—Moses is a prophet of God from a priestly family of God. He was used by God to deliver his people out of slavery and bondage. Not only this, God revealed to Moses his personal name (Ex. 3:13, 14), his overwhelming power (Ex. chapters 7-12), and the beautiful fullness of his character (Ex. 20:1-17). Even so—with great humility—Moses says please. Do you say please to God?
Show—Moses knows he can’t find God’s glory, so he asks God to take action. That’s how this whole thing works. God works on behalf of his people. Of necessity, this requires a “righteous passivity” on our part. When is the last time you praised someone (or yourself) for being passive? Do you recognize your passiveness and God’s activeness? Show me…
Me—“Please pray for aunt Gertrude.” “Y’all pray for Tonya.” “Pray for Hubert.” On and on go the “others” prayer requests. And that’s okay, good, called for, and necessary. But to neglect appropriate prayers for yourself is not good! In the last week, month, and year, how many times have you asked something remotely close to please show me your glory, God? Will you start?
Your—With one pronoun, Moses cements his humility (please), emphasizes God’s action (show), and appropriately asks for a “me” thing. Moses wants to see God—not himself. Have you reflected on your life, whether your actions reveal a desire to see God? Will you?
Glory—What is God’s glory? John Piper, a pastor and author, once defined God’s glory as “the ‘going public’ of his infinite worth.” This fits well with Moses’ ask, right? Show me. Have you considered God’s infinite worth, that it’s worthy to be asked about?
In light of Moses’ “short ask,” will you consider my own “short ask?” Will you memorize this Bible verse with me? God’s blessings to you this day. Regards,
Jeremiah