Signs of Presence

Exodus 17:1-7

Massah is said to mean ‘proof’, while Meribah translates as ‘contention.’ Both meanings come from what Moses says in the last part of verse 2.

Thirst would have been a constant issue in the wilderness, and we rightly be reluctant to judge the people for their reaction, even though the same observation applies here as with the complaint about food when the manna was given: What more does God have to do than what he has done to show he can be counted on?

Still, immediate circumstances have a way of crowding out our nobler thoughts, and it is a problem of faith to feel certain that God is with us in time of crisis. The need for comfort and assurance cannot be underestimated. Still, as far as I can see, the only promise we have of permanent healing and comfort is in final glory. Jesus actually cautioned against insistence on signs of God’s presence (Mark 8:12). What he did promise was his presence. That should be enough.

But there is more. We are free (that is, free to respond to Jesus’ commandment in this) to remind one another of that promise in real-life ways, in meeting and living with one another in love.

Prayer:
O God, thank you for your gracious withholding of signs, so that we will be drawn to one another in our need for help and encouragement. Through Christ. Amen.