God saved the Israelites from the advancing Egyptian army, and during their time in the wilderness they witness God’s power at work in astonishing ways. As the Israelites begin to
cross the Red Sea, the psalmist says that “the sea looked and fled.” Then they are able to cross on dry land. The psalmist recounts that later God brings water from a rock that quenches their thirst. Those present watch in amazement as they witness these extraordinary acts of God.
This is a song of praise that recalls the miraculous ways that God delivered the Israelites from Egypt. Sea, mountains, hills—all give way to the Creator. The earth itself trembles. The created order changes before their eyes. This song of praise reflects God’s power. Yahweh has acted on their behalf; nothing can intimidate them!
Today we witness God’s miracles all around us: Babies are born; flowers bloom seasonally; days turn to night. God exhibits divine power and sovereignty daily. Even as we witness trage- dies, we watch the omnipresent and miraculous works of God play out.
Meditate on the mighty works of God—within your family, your community, your workplace, or around the world. Be pres- ent and mindful of God’s great miracles that still occur today.
Creator God, you have sustained us during challenging times, and yet, during your miraculous and saving works you con- tinue blessing and protecting each of us. Help us always to be mindful and grateful for your sovereign power and saving grace. Amen.
Exodus 14 narrates the Exodus event in stylized liturgical statements. It tells of God’s utter commit- ment to Israel and of Israel’s fearful doubt. This is a narrative “toward faith.” Psalm 114 is a buoyant, almost de ant cele- bration of the Exodus, in which all the enemies of Yahweh are put to embarrassing ight. It is recalled that Yahweh’s sovereign power to liberate is decisive for the world, as it is for Israel. In Romans 14 Paul struggles with the issue of free- dom within obedience and moves us beyond the letter of the law to its spirit. For Paul, the attitude of faith shapes human conduct. The parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew reminds all would-be disciples that law must be tempered with mercy in their dealings with one another if they expect to receive mercy from God.
• Read Exodus 14:19-31. How can you tell when God is guiding you? When in your life have you wondered if God was still there? Reflect on those times.
• Read Psalm 114. “Judah became God’s sanctuary, Israel his dominion.” Substitute your name for Judah and Israel in this verse and pray the words several times. How does it feel to be called God’s sanctuary and dominion?
• Read Romans 14:1-12. How do you observe a weekly sabbath? Are there businesses in your community that close for a sabbath? How does that practice affect you?
• Read Matthew 18:21-35. Whom do you want or need to for- give? Why and how might you avoid this issue? How will you pray about this?
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