The eighth plague is locust, which eats everything green. Having lost their crop, and a majority of their livestock, the lack of grass now threatens the rest of their food stock.
The ninth plague is darkness. Imagine it: the Nile reeks of dead fish and decomposing animals There is nothing green in the land. People are bloody from their skin sores. And then, the light goes out.
The Pharaoh is close to giving in. But he is insisting on some sort of collateral. Maybe the children, or the livestock, he says. Just something ot make sure they will come back.
On this occasion, God is not taking "no" for an answer. He wants his people and everything they own. In a rage of frustration, the Pharaoh sends Moses away and says, "I never want to see your face again."
"That's find with me," Moses says.
Write
Think about your faith story: have you ever gotten so frustrated with God that you send him away?
Presently, what are you most frustrated with God about? What is he seemingly not taking no for an answer from you?
Who do you know is saying, "I never want to see you again" to God?
Pray
What
is God saying to you today? What's Good News to you?
Talk to God about the ways you have been frustrated with him. Thank God for the way he lets you vent, and still sticks with you.
Pray about your current frustrations with God. Ask God for the help you need, the reassureance of his presence, and the courage to give God what he asks..
Pray for your friend who is turning away from God. Ask God to show you how you can come along side and support your friend..
Pray for an experience of God's love, grace and mercy when he won't take no for an answer from you, and in the way he waits for your cooperation.