Has your life ever changed in a pivotal moment?
I think most of us have had a few of them. Sometimes, they're shared with our communities. Most people in my parents' age range remember where they were when John F. Kennedy was shot. Most Americans today remember where they were on September 11, 2001.
Most of the time, life-changing moments are personal. Couples can often remember how and when they met. Parents remember the day their child was born. Many of us can recall our first days at college or a new job.
Can you remember a life-changing moment with God?
As I read today's passage, I was struck by the power of Moses' encounter with God. Because of a moment in God's presence, he looked like a totally different person. He had a glow. He probably had a new sense of confidence in who God was and who God was to him personally. God called him to lead His people with courage and strength.
In another portion of this passage, there are verses describing people who were filled with the Spirit of God. These same individuals were mentioned earlier (see Exodus 31). What's interesting is that Exodus 31 was the first time that term "filled with the Spirit of God" was used in Scripture. I know that's a life-changing kind of experience...but who experienced it? Not Moses himself, but some skilled artists and craftsmen. Interesting. These guys experienced a special God-moment for a purpose--God gave them skill and knowledge to make exceptionally beautiful things (I'm thinking maybe artists like Michelangelo had the same encounter to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel!).
These are different examples, but one common thread is the fact that life-changing moments with God often happen for a reason. Perhaps because God's calling you to do something. Perhaps He's calling you to lead or create. Or maybe, you just need a sense of His peace and confidence. The next time you experience God's presence, know that you can walk away changed--remember that your encounter might have a purpose.
Tomorrow: Exodus 36-38
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