Jethro was delighted to hear about all the good things the LORD had done for Israel in rescuing them from the hand of the Egyptians. He said, "Praise be to the LORD, who rescued you from the hand of the Egyptians and of Pharaoh, and who rescued the people from the hand of the Egyptians. Now I know that the LORD is greater than all other gods, for he did this to those who had treated Israel arrogantly." Then Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, brought a burnt offering and other sacrifices to God, and Aaron came with all the elders of Israel to eat a meal with Moses' father-in-law in the presence of God. (Exodus 18:9-12 NIV)
I read three chapters from the book of Exodus today and I was wondering what passage I would choose for today's writing. There are so many powerful things shared in these three chapters. God miraculously provided manna in the morning and quail at night six days a week. The miracle included provisions for a seventh day of rest. He brought water from a rock - enough for millions of people to drink in a desert every day. When the Amalekites attacked, we see the power of prayer even in physical battles we face. Jethro gives Godly advise to help Moses lead millions of people wisely. Truly, there was much to choose from.
What struck me today, though, was a much simpler, often overlooked part of the story. They thanked the LORD for all He had done, offered sacrifices to Him, then ate a meal together "in the presence of God."
The miracle of manna and quail pointed the people to a day of rest with God. The water from the rock was constant reminder of God. The battle with the Amalekites encouraged prayer to God. The division of labor to thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens was to spread the wisdom of God. God wants to be involved in our lives.
When they had a meal in the presence of God, though, it was more relaxing. It was a time of reflection. They were enjoying the presence of God. They were walking together with God.
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