The Bible Daily Read

Having journeyed through the book of Genesis, we now enter Exodus, the second book of the Bible. These opening chapters (Exodus 1–3) introduce a dramatic shift: after Joseph’s death, the Israelites multiply in Egypt, provoking fear in a new Pharaoh who has forgotten Joseph’s legacy. We encounter oppression, courage in the face of tyranny, and the beginnings of a remarkable rescue plan through the reluctant yet chosen leader, Moses. Though the events occurred millennia ago, their themes echo across modern issues of social justice, leadership, and spiritual awakening.

Exodus 1 presents a stark situation: a once-hospitable nation has grown hostile to the descendants of Jacob, now known as the Israelites. The Pharaoh fears their increasing numbers and subjects them to brutal slavery. In our contemporary world, we witness echoes of such dynamics whenever fear breeds prejudice—when societies marginalize or exploit minority groups due to perceived threats. We see it in attitudes toward refugees, in the scapegoating of certain ethnic communities, and in systems that perpetuate inequality. The story of the Israelites reminds us that God not only sees such oppression but also hears the cries of the oppressed (Exodus 3:7).

In Exodus 2, we meet Moses at birth, hidden among the reeds by his mother to save him from Pharaoh’s deadly decree against Hebrew baby boys. Ironically, Pharaoh’s own daughter rescues Moses, who grows up in the Egyptian royal household. As an adult, Moses flees Egypt after killing an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew slave. This flight sets him on a path of exile in Midian. Modern readers can relate to Moses’ struggle with identity and injustice. Whether we confront bullying at school, discrimination at work, or larger societal injustices, the question remains: how do we respond? Moses’ hasty action leads to unforeseen consequences, highlighting that while righteous anger can be a catalyst for action, it must be guided by wisdom and care for the broader impact of our choices.

Exodus 3 then narrates Moses’ life-changing encounter with God in the burning bush. While tending sheep in Midian, Moses sees a bush engulfed in flames yet not consumed. God speaks to him, calling him to return to Egypt and deliver the Israelites from slavery. It’s a moment of profound revelation and personal reluctance—Moses doesn’t see himself as qualified. Old Testament scholar Dr. Walter Brueggemann explains that Moses’ hesitation is rooted in a profound sense of inadequacy. This mirrors many of us today who shy away from leadership or activism, believing we lack the expertise, influence, or courage. Moses’ call underscores a crucial point: God frequently chooses unexpected people to enact justice and deliverance, equipping them in the process.

The implications for our modern context are clear. We might face injustice or witness suffering in our communities—lack of equitable healthcare, systemic racism, environmental harm—yet feel ill-prepared to respond. Moses’ story demonstrates that genuine calling often emerges in the midst of ordinary life, through encounters that push us beyond our comfort zones. And though we may feel unsure of our capacity, God’s reassurance to Moses—“I will be with you” (Exodus 3:12)—remains a timeless promise.

As we embark on the journey through Exodus, let’s pay attention to how God acts in history to liberate and restore. Let’s also examine our own hearts: Where do we see oppression around us, and how might we be called to intervene? The story of Exodus invites us to consider whether God might be meeting us in our own “burning bush” moments—situations that spark our conscience—and asking us to trust Him, even when the road ahead seems daunting.