Читать книгу The Grand Sweep - Large Print - J. Ellsworth Kalas - Страница 37

EXODUS 13–15

Week 5, Day 1

Since the Israelite firstborn were spared from the death angel, the people were to consecrate all their firstborn, both human and animal, to the Lord. This would be a reminder that the Lord had brought them “out of Egypt, from the house of slavery” (13:14). They were to be a covenant people, led by a safe route since they were not ready for war (13:17) and guided by the quiet, continuing miracle of cloud and fire.

But (like you and me) they were an obstinate lot. They rebelled as they faced the sea, contending that it would have been better to stay in Egypt than to die in the wilderness. How could they so quickly forget the power of the Lord from the Passover night? Most of us, if we reflect honestly upon our own journey, will understand. We so soon forget the pain of the slavery from which we have been saved and the glory and mercy of God in our deliverance.

But as they saw their pursuers destroyed, they joined Moses in singing a song of deliverance. Then Miriam, Moses’ sister, picked up the theme. Tambourine in hand, she led the women in dancing and singing: “Sing to the LORD, for he has triumphed gloriously” (15:21). They were only three days down the road, however, when they not only forgot the songs they had sung with Moses and Miriam but complained bitterly against Moses at their shortage of water. God used the occasion to add a new dimension to their covenant (15:25b-26).

PRAYER: Give me a sanctified memory, I pray, so that when I am inclined to grumble against you, I will remember your mercy. Amen.

Record the pendulum swing of the actions of God, the troubles endured, and the negative and positive responses of the people.