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EXODUS 34–36

Week 6, Day 1

Exodus 34 is a chapter of the second chance. Moses is privileged to return to the mountain to receive a new set of the tables of the Law, to replace those that were broken.

Moses confesses that his people are “stiff-necked” but asks that God “take us for your inheritance” (34:9). The covenant is renewed, with a solemn warning about the perils that lie ahead. Israel will have the power to conquer the nations they will one day face, but they must guard against taking on the evil practices of those people.

It’s interesting to see what matters are emphasized here. Idols—a reminder that their recent disaster came at this issue. And remember the festival of unleavened bread (34:18); this will remind them of their deliverance from slavery. Remember, too, the obligation of the firstborn; a reminder of the climaxing plague. And the sabbath (34:21-24), because this is the unique symbol of God’s people. Moses came from this encounter with God with a face that shone too brilliantly to be viewed.

Then there is the story of talent and of willingness. What a beautiful combination! Neither is fully adequate without the other. The two craftsmen, Bezalel and Oholiab, were joined by “everyone whose heart was stirred to come to do the work” (36:2). A freewill offering was received, with response so great that “the people were restrained from bringing” more (36:6). What a happy quality of commitment!

PRAYER: I want my heart to be so devoted to you that I can hardly contain my desire to give; to your glory. Amen.

Ponder the second giving of the Law and the renewed promise that came with it, and compare the “second chances” God has brought to your life.