Rick Schnetzler Robert Rivers Old Testament Weekend Two Springfield Diocese 8 March, 2013

Old Testament Weekend Two - Question 1 Moses survived the killing of the Hebrew children by Pharaoh. He lived a life better than other Hebrews after being taken in by Pharaohs daughter. And yet when he saw the abuse of a Hebrew he defended him. This forced Moses into self-exile. Although this would make perfect sense to the outsider, as to why God would choose Moses to lead his people to freedom. Moses would not perceive it that way. Moses had seen upclose the good life of the Pharaoh and the torture of the Hebrews. And, like his people, he experienced being forced into exile. The call and commission of Moses begins with the miraculous sight of the burning bush. But I feel it is no greater than the experience we can have at Mass or Eucharistic adoration if we truly believe that Christ is present. In my life it gives me love, strength, and peace. I find many similarities between the call of Moses and my call and formation in the diaconate. Not that I would ever compare myself to Moses, but I think many of us can relate to his responses when we ask, what do you want from us Lord? God describes that he is aware of the needs of his people, he has a way to help them, and Moses would be the one to lead them to freedom. Moses response is Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?(Exodus 3:11) I think many of us, when we feel we have been called to serve God experience the Who am I ?

moment. The humbling experience that I am not smart enough, experienced enough, or holy enough. We tend to ignore the fact that God knows everything about us and everything we are capable of accomplishing. Next Moses questions whether the Israelites will even believe him enough to follow him. God explains how to address the Israelites. This is what you will say to the Israelites: The Lord, the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you. (Exodus 3:15) We will all find strength as long as we are sent by God As long as people know that we are speaking in Gods name, those who are open to receive his message will receive it. When Moses speaks to the Lord saying, I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor now that you have spoken to your servent; but I am slow of speech and tongue. (Exodus 4:10) This hits home with me. I fear speaking in front of people, so how can I be a deacon? God assures Moses, Now go, I will assist you in speaking and teach you what you are to say.(Exodus 4:12) I believe, although this is an obstacle for me, that as long as I know I can trust in Gods help, I will be able to handle it. God gave Moses many signs to convince Pharaoh, the Egytians, and the Israelites of his presence and power. Initially I could not relate this in my life or the people I am ministering to. I cannot see myself turning a staff into a serpent or a river into blood. I believe instead I am called to present God to others though acts of love, charity, and humility. As Pharaoh did, I expect that some hearts will be hardened towards Gods love, but I hope by God using me I can bring souls to him.