God sends the Hebrews on their way. Although God sends angels to lead their way, he keeps a distance for their own protection. God is so annoyed at them being a 'stubborn hard-headed people" that he is doing everything to destroying them.
To keep from making idols again, the people gave up all their precious metals. They are fully aware that God is not in their midst.
This story tells us that sin keeps God away. He still watches us and leads us, but the Hebrews know that there is a palpable difference between having God IN camp, than having God at a distance.
Moses sets up God's tent outside of camp - where he will meet with God. Whenever Moses meets with God, every man watches from their tent. I guess they are waiting and hoping for God to give some good news, that he is willing to move back into camp with them.
A young man named Joshua keeps guard of God's tent. He will be come into his own as a leader later. For now, he is learning to hear God.
Write
Think about your faith story: how have you experienced God at a distance? How did it feel? What did you do?
Presently, what are somethings in your life that may be keeping God at a distance?
Who do you know is hurting because he is feeling the pain of having God at a distance?
Pray
What
is God saying to you today? What's Good News to you?
Talk to God about the times when you have felt him keeping distance from you. Thank God for the ways he always forgives you, and makes a way for you to come back under his care and protection.
Pray about the relationships and situations where you feel God keeping distance. Ask God for the wisdom and support to repent, and invite God back into the intimate parts of your life.
Pray for your friend who is hurting with God at a distance. Pray for the wisdom and opportunity to come along side them and support them in inviting God back.
Pray for an experience of God's love, grace and mercy in the way he is always for you, and the way he grows you even when you veer from him..