There are interesting connections between Exodus 19 and Luke
22. In Exodus 19 the people are reminded both of how God has rescued them and
how they are to become ‘a kingdom of priests and a holy nation’ (Exodus 19:6),
a people whose changed lives will display God’s ways to the world. (We might
think of this as part 1 of his plan.) He is about to enter a covenant with them
by giving them a new way of living. There are 2 poles of true faith: God’s
transforming love for the world (and for us) and our transformation to new life
to take part in his plans. And Exodus 19:9-25 shows us we stand on holy ground
here.
Luke 22 shows us the beginnings of the second great stage of
that plan. In Jesus God offers a new covenant. He involves himself in life at
it hardest – betrayal, pain, suffering and ultimately death. This is all about
self-giving, symbolised in the broken bread and shared wine. It will ultimately
lead to the establishment of God’s ways throughout creation as the Kingdom of God
As ever the disciples are slow on the uptake and remain
concerned with their status, being slow to learn that serving others is a key
part of the true freedom that God’s reign brings (Luke 22:24-27).
For thought:
·
In coming into God’s presence am I conscious of
standing on holy ground?
·
How can I respond to Jesus by serving?
(Christ Church lay preacher)