Exodus 24

Embracing the Holiness of God: Reflections on Exodus 24

As we dive into Exodus 24, we are confronted with the profound reality of God’s holiness and the sacred parameters He established to protect us from His unfiltered presence. We recognize that the boundaries set around God’s presence were not mere restrictions; they were acts of grace designed to keep us safe.

Understanding the Boundaries

God placed three boundary markers during this encounter: the people, the seventy-four leaders, and Moses alone ascending the mountain. This structure teaches us about the nature of God's holiness and how we must approach Him with reverence and obedience. As we reflect on these boundaries, we are reminded of our call to live in a way that honors the sanctity of God’s presence in our lives.

A Call to Obedience

When Moses communicated God’s commands, the emphasis was on obedience (Exodus 24:3, 7). This wasn’t merely a checklist to follow; it was an invitation into a deeper relationship with our Creator. The sprinkling of blood in the covenant ceremony symbolizes not only atonement but also our commitment to walk in God’s ways. As we consider the sacrifices made—both in the Old Testament and through Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice—we find ourselves faced with the question: Are we fully embracing this call to obedience?

The Meaning of the Sprinkling

The act of sprinkling blood over the altar and the people had profound significance. It was a declaration of God’s faithfulness and a reminder that we are a holy nation, called to reflect His glory to the world. When we think about Jesus’ words in Matthew 26:28, reminding us that His blood is poured out for many, we see a direct connection to the atoning work established long before Him. The author of Hebrews echoes this idea, emphasizing that without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness (Hebrews 9:22).

We, too, are sprinkled with Christ’s blood, not just for our forgiveness but to empower us to live as a chosen people, a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). This realization prompts us to ask ourselves: Do we recognize the cost of our redemption? Are we willing to live in obedience to the one who has given us so much?

Seeing and Feasting in God’s Presence

In Exodus 24:9-11, we witness a remarkable moment where Moses and the elders ascend the mountain and share a meal in God’s presence. They saw God, albeit in a limited way, and celebrated their covenant relationship with Him. This act of fellowship emphasizes the joy and intimacy we can experience in our walk with God.

While we may struggle with the notion that we cannot see God in His fullness, we find comfort in the truth that we can see Him through our love for one another (1 John 4:12). Our relationships should reflect the love of Christ, making the invisible God visible to those around us. As we think about the unity of believers in times of division—such as the Rwandan genocide or even local community tensions—we realize that our love has the power to break down barriers and point others to the living God.

Climbing and Waiting on God

The latter part of Exodus 24 (v12-16) illustrates the importance of waiting in God’s presence. After the meal, Moses and Joshua climbed higher, yet they waited six days before God called them into His glory. This waiting was not an act of futility; it was a time of preparation and anticipation. It reminds us that waiting on God is an active engagement, not a passive resignation.

In our own lives, how often do we rush into decisions without taking the time to wait on God? The act of waiting cultivates a deeper connection with Him, allowing us to appreciate the beauty of His presence.

Conclusion: Living in Response

As we reflect on Exodus 24, we are reminded of the richness of our covenant with God. He has set boundaries not to confine us, but to guide us into a life of holiness and obedience. We are called to remember the cost of our redemption, to live out our identity as a holy nation, and to demonstrate God’s love to the world.

Let us embrace the journey of climbing higher in our faith, waiting on God, and celebrating the covenant relationship we have with Him. Together, we can reflect His glory and make His love visible in a world that desperately needs it.