Encountering God in the Present: Reflections on Moses and the Burning Bush
Greetings, dear friends. Today, I want to share some reflections from a recent homily I delivered, focusing on the profound themes found in the story of Moses and the burning bush. This narrative, rich with spiritual insights, offers us a deeper understanding of God’s presence, our call to freedom, and the importance of living in the present moment. Let’s delve into these themes and explore how they can guide us in our faith journey, especially during this season of Lent.
The Significance of the Exodus
While the creation story often captures our imagination as the foundation of the biblical narrative, it is the Exodus that truly shapes the identity of Israel and their understanding of God. The Exodus is a story of liberation, divine intervention, and the establishment of a covenant relationship between God and His people. It resonates deeply with themes of suffering, hope, and redemption.
Key Takeaways:
– Liberation: The Exodus narrative is about God liberating His people from the bondage of slavery in Egypt. This liberation is not just physical but also spiritual, symbolising our own journey from sin to salvation.
– Divine Intervention: God’s active role in the Exodus story reminds us that He is always present and involved in our lives, especially in times of suffering.
– Covenant Relationship: The establishment of a covenant between God and Israel highlights the importance of our relationship with God, built on trust, obedience, and love.
Moses and the Burning Bush: A Metaphor for Divine Revelation
Moses’ encounter with the burning bush is a powerful metaphor for divine revelation. This moment is pivotal, not just in the story of Israel, but in understanding the nature of God and His relationship with humanity.
Key Takeaways:
– Mindfulness: Moses had to pause and take notice of the extraordinary sight before him—a bush that burned but was not consumed. This moment of awareness is crucial; it emphasises the need for mindfulness in our spiritual lives. Often, we rush through our days, missing the signs of God’s presence and action in our lives.
– Divine Attentiveness: As Moses approaches the bush, he hears the voice of the Lord, who reveals His awareness of the suffering of His people. This divine attentiveness is a source of comfort, reminding us that we are never alone in our hardships. God sees us, hears us, and is present in our pain.
Embracing Our Calling Despite Reluctance
Moses’ initial hesitation and self-doubt are relatable. Many of us feel inadequate when faced with challenges or responsibilities. Yet, God reassures Moses that he is the chosen one for this mission.
Key Takeaways:
– Human Reluctance: Moses’ excuses reflect a common human tendency to doubt our abilities and to believe that someone else might be better suited for the task.
– Divine Reassurance: God reassures Moses that he is the chosen one for this mission. This affirmation speaks to our own potential and calling, encouraging us to embrace our unique role in God’s plan.
The Revelation of God’s Name: “I AM WHO I AM”
The revelation of God’s name to Moses—“I AM WHO I AM”—is rich with meaning, emphasising God’s eternal presence and the importance of the present moment.
Key Takeaways:
– Eternal Presence: God’s name, “I AM WHO I AM,” underscores His eternal presence. He exists in the now, inviting us to encounter Him in our current circumstances rather than being preoccupied with the past or anxious about the future.
– Mindfulness in Lent: This focus on the present is particularly relevant during the season of Lent, a time for reflection, repentance, and renewal. Grounding ourselves in the present can help alleviate anxiety and foster a deeper connection with God.
Grounding Ourselves in the Present
To cultivate mindfulness and awareness of God’s presence, I encourage you to ask two fundamental questions: “What time is it?” and “Where am I?” These questions serve as reminders to be mindful and aware of God’s presence in our lives right now.
Key Takeaways:
– What Time Is It?: This question reminds us to focus on the present moment, recognising that God is with us here and now.
– Where Am I?: This question encourages us to be aware of our surroundings and circumstances, acknowledging God’s presence in our current situation.
The Significance of God’s Name: Breath and Life
God’s name, composed of aspirated vowels, evokes a sense of breath and life. This name invites us to breathe in the presence of God, to recognise His closeness, and to respond to His call.
Key Takeaways:
– Breath of Life: God’s name, which sounds like breath, reminds us of His life-giving presence. Every breath we take is a reminder of God’s closeness and His sustaining power.
– Divine Invitation: God is always making space for us, extending His mercy and inviting us into a relationship of freedom and love.
The Fig Tree: Patience and Fruitfulness
The metaphor of the fig tree in the vineyard illustrates God’s patience and desire for fruitfulness in our lives. Some of us may feel unproductive or stagnant, yet God is willing to wait for us to bear fruit.
Key Takeaways:
– Divine Patience: God’s patience is a testament to His grace, reminding us that growth often takes time and that we are all on a journey toward becoming who God has called us to be.
– Call to Fruitfulness: We are invited to let go of the burdens that hold us back and to embrace the life that God offers, bearing fruit in our spiritual journey.
Responding to God’s Call to Freedom
Just as Moses was called to lead the Israelites out of slavery, we too are invited to let go of the burdens that hold us back and to embrace the life that God offers. The journey to the promised land is not just a physical one; it is a spiritual journey toward wholeness, healing, and fulfilment in our relationship with God.
Key Takeaways:
– Spiritual Liberation: Our journey to the promised land is a spiritual one, moving from bondage to freedom in our relationship with God.
– Embracing Our Calling: We are encouraged to embrace our unique calling, trusting in God’s provision and experiencing the transformative power of His love in the here and now.
Conclusion
In summary, the story of Moses and the burning bush serves as a powerful reminder of God’s presence in our lives, the importance of being present in the moment, and the call to respond to His invitation for freedom and fruitfulness. As we navigate our own journeys, may we find the courage to embrace our calling, trust in God’s provision, and experience the transformative power of His love in the here and now.
May this reflection guide you in your spiritual journey, especially during this season of Lent. Let us be mindful of God’s presence, embrace our unique calling, and respond to His invitation for a life of freedom and fruitfulness.
Blessings,
Fr Richard Healey (RH)