Encountering the Holy: Standing on Sacred Ground
In the quiet barrenness of the Midian wilderness, Moses shepherded the flock away from the noise of Egypt. Yet, centered within this stark stillness, God Himself broke forth in holy fire—a bush ablaze but miraculously unconsumed.
“When the LORD saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, ‘Moses! Moses!’ And Moses said, ‘Here I am.’ ‘Do not come any closer,’ God said. ‘Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.’” (Exodus 3:4-5, New International Version)
It is striking how God reveals Himself—not in a grand palace or splendid temple, but through an ordinary desert shrub. Such poignant simplicity teaches us that God’s sacredness permeates the everyday. We often overlook how holiness quietly intersects our mundane lives. The removal of sandals signaled profound humility, a cultural mark of respect common in ancient Near Eastern traditions, as one would enter the presence of a mighty king or deity barefoot, symbolizing vulnerability before majesty (see Joshua 5:15).
Theologian John Calvin insightfully notes, “The bush that burns but is not destroyed symbolizes Israel suffering in the fires of oppression yet preserved by God’s grace.” The same fiery trials that we experience might feel consuming, yet are precisely where God often chooses to meet with us in gentle, powerful revelation.
Reflect: Have you sensed God’s sacred presence in unexpected “ordinary” moments? Are there ways you might need to approach God with renewed reverence and humility?
In verses 13-15, we encounter that profoundly mysterious moment when God chooses the sacred revelation of His personal name:
“God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: “I AM has sent me to you.”’” (Exodus 3:14, New International Version)
Here, we encounter the Hebrew name יהוה (“YHWH,” often rendered “Yahweh” or “Jehovah”), derived from the verb hâyâh meaning “to be.” God’s revealed name—“I AM WHO I AM”—transcends merely naming Him; it proclaims God’s eternal self-existence, self-sufficiency, and ever-present nearness to His people.
Historically, rabbis and Jewish scribes viewed this name as too sacred even to pronounce, instead substituting “Adonai” (Lord). This reverential tradition reminds us of something we may overlook—our words, our references to God, carry weight and sacred responsibility. Martin Luther interpreted this passage as revealing not only God’s eternal presence, but His covenantal faithfulness, the Great “I AM” who fulfils every promise to His people (cross-reference: John 8:58, Revelation 1:8).
Reflect: What significance does God’s eternal name hold in your daily walk? How does knowing God as “I AM” comfort and strengthen your faith?
God’s call upon Moses wasn’t simply for a personal encounter but to lead a people out from oppression. Deliverance and rescue are central motifs of God’s nature and mission throughout Scripture. God instructs Moses that the Israelites will not only escape bondage but will “plunder the Egyptians” (Exodus 3:22), symbolically reclaiming what had wrongfully been denied them during slavery.
Archaeologically and historically, it was customary in Ancient Near Eastern cultures for departing peoples or freed slaves to claim goods (either willingly or as reparation). God’s instructions follow ancient cultural practices while symbolically signifying justice and restoration. This demonstrates beautifully God’s character as a God of restorative justice (compare Genesis 15:14, Psalm 105:37).
Reflect:
How has God led you from bondage into freedom? Where might God be asking
you to help lead others into spiritual and emotional freedom?
Consider reflecting today upon the lyrics of “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise,” a hymn richly echoing the truths of Exodus 3’s revelation of God’s hidden glory and transcendent character.
Heavenly Father, great “I AM,” in awe we approach Your holy presence today. Forgive us for our casual irreverence; teach us humility and wonder again. Open our eyes and hearts to see Your holiness in everyday places and people, even in times of difficulty. Strengthen us, Lord, to obey Your call as we lead, serve, and proclaim Your freedom; through Jesus Christ, our eternal Savior, Amen.