Moses’ Intercession For His People

Moses returned to the LORD and said, “Oh, what a terrible sin these people have committed. They have made gods of gold for themselves. But now, if you will only forgive their sin—but if not, erase my name from the record you have written!”

Exodus 32:31-32

Moses had every reason to be upset with the people of Israel. While he was meeting with God on the mountain to receive God’s law, the Israelites fashioned a gold calf and began to worship it. By doing so, they were not only breaking their promise to worship the living God alone, but they were also rejecting Moses’ spiritual leadership. Moses could have easily asked God to destroy them on the spot. Instead, he pleaded for God’s mercy on them. Moses showed great love for the Israelites, despite the fact that they had rebelled against his authority.

Among your friends, coworkers, and acquaintances, are you concerned about the best interests of others? Go to the Lord; ask him to have mercy on those who least deserve it.

• Dear God, teach me to love others as Moses loved his people . . .