ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
August 30, 2026
Today, in worship, we are going to be looking at the Book of Exodus, and specifically the call of Moses. Like those who have not only received an unexpected call, but one that is going to be quite demanding, Moses got a little nervous. At the beginning of the fourth chapter, Moses said to the divine voice in the burning bush, “But look, they may not believe me or listen to me but say, ‘The Lord did not appear to you.’” For many people, when they think of faithfulness, they assume only confidence and boldness, but so many of the stories we find in scripture are stories of caution, questions, and a handful of concerns. There is a part of me that envies what is often portrayed as an unquestioning, even mindless faith. But that does not sound like most humans. And even when we look at some of what we might call the great saints and witnesses of the church, we find people who had doubts, fears, and even moments when they wondered whether they needed to see a doctor. So as often as Moses is mocked, even ridiculed for his questions and excuses, there is something very real and genuine about his response. And for me, I sort of need that Moses.
Holy and Revelatory Voice, we listen and sometimes wonder about what we have heard. We’re anxious, quick to reach for an excuse. Please remain faithful in your call upon our lives, as we desire, amidst the fears, to be faithful to you. Amen.
