Exodus 34:29-35

Read Exodus 34:29-35 

Helpful Background Information:

• Moses had just gone back up to Mount Sinai to write the ten commandments and terms of the covenant on two new stone tablets, as Israel had broken the first stone tablets during their idolatry with the golden calf. He spent 40 days and nights on the mountain, and when he came down to deliver these instructions, his face shone because he had been in the presence of the Lord. This radiance was a reflection of God’s glory. 

• It is easy to think that Moses wore the veil so the people would not be afraid to come near him (Exodus 34:30), or that the purpose of the veil was to protect others from the glorious radiance of Moses’ face. Yet the Apostle Paul (in 2 Corinthians 3) explained the real purpose of the veil: not to hide the shining face of Moses, but so that the diminishing glory of his face would not be observed because the glory was fading.

• Spending time in God's presence transforms us, just as it did for Moses. Our lives should reflect His glory to those around us. Just as Moses reflected God's glory, we are called to reflect the glory of Christ in our daily lives, being transformed into His likeness. 

Reflection Questions: 

• How does the temporary nature of Moses' radiance compare to the eternal glory we have in Christ? How do you not grow familiar with glimpses of God’s glory, but rather continually stand in awe of God and what he is doing in your life? 

• Moses wore a veil because the people were afraid of the radiance. In what ways have you tried to "veil" or hide your faith, convictions, or the work God is doing in you around others?

• Moses’ face reflected God’s glory simply because he spent time in His presence. The more time God’s people spend with Him, the more they look like Him. What are some tangible markers of fruit/transformation/growth in your life as a result of abiding in him?