Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.
Lord, prepare me to receive your word. Clear my mind and warm my heart. Assure me of your loving purposes for me, and speak into my life today.
The Exodus from Egypt – the word means 'going out' in Greek – was one of the foundations of Israel's identity. The people had been slaves, and God rescued them. It's an extraordinarily powerful story. British slave-holders in the West Indies in the early nineteenth century begrudgingly allowed missionaries to distribute Bibles to slaves – but edited them to remove the Exodus story, among others, in case it gave them ideas of liberty. As well as a historical record, it's also an image of what God does for all those who trust in him today. He frees us from bondage to our old ways and our old sins, and gives us a new start.
Leaving Egypt is one thing, though. Learning to live in freedom is another thing entirely, and Exodus records the people's repeated failures. In this passage, however, there's a potent sign of God's presence, which stands for his care for us today. The people aren't sent on their journey alone. During the day God goes before them in a pillar of cloud, and at night in a pillar of fire.
The great Welsh hymn 'Guide me, O thou great Jehovah' draws on several Exodus stories. One verse says: Let the fiery, cloudy pillar/ Lead me all my journey through.' The vivid image speaks of God's guidance and leading throughout our lives. He is our 'strong deliverer', our 'strength and shield'.
God, when I feel as though I'm lost in a wilderness and don't know where to turn, help me to look for your wisdom and trust in in your guidance.
This reflection was written by Mark Woods, Bible Society's Editor
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