tribesofsinai2024

Moses took the book of the Covenant and read it to the people. They responded ‘’we will do everything the LORD has said, we will obey.’’

Moses then took the blood sprinkled it on the people and said, ‘’This is the blood of the covenant that the LORD has made with you in accordance to all these words.’’^[1]

Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and seventy elders of Israel were then treated to a remarkable encounter with the LORD where they saw him and a sapphire pavement beneath his feet.^[2]

This visual encounter serves as the LORD’s confirmation of the renewed covenant and His presence among His people. The presence of the seventy elders represented the entirety of the Israelite community, signifying that the covenant extends to all members of the nation. 

The elders were comfortable enough to eat in his presence. The act of eating and drinking in the presence of the Lord is the result of the reconciliation between God and His people, where sin is atoned for, and fellowship is restored. It is a powerful reminder of God’s presence among His people, His desire to enter a close relationship with them, and the importance of unity and solidarity within the community of faith. 

Among traditional cultures eating meat that has been sacrificed to God is seen as a means of participating in the divine realm and receiving spiritual nourishment. Sharing a meal is a sign of hospitality and friendship, signifying mutual respect, trust, and interdependence. During communal feasts, all participate so those with resources share their food with those who are less fortunate. 

Reflection 

Which of the resurrection appearances of Christ involved the sharing of food? 

In what ways can we celebrate and renew Christ’s Covenant with our family, friends, and neighbours? 

Which stranger, widow, orphan, poor family, or enemy, might the Lord show his love and grace to as you invite them to a special meal? 

Prayer  

Thank the Lord for his heart’s desire to have fellowship with his people. 

Thank the Lord that He has provided a way for loving fellowship to be restored. 

Thank the Lord for his atoning sacrifice to forgive all our sins against him. 

Thank the Lord for the gift of his most preciouses Holy Spirit for all who truly believe and repent. 

Thank the Lord that a rich culture of hospitality has been preserved among many traditional cultures, particularly the Bedouin and Egyptians.

Please pray for Christians and Muslims to discover the Lord’s grace, truth and presence through sharing food and conversation here in the Sinai, Egypt, Israel and among the nations. 

Oh, Happy Day

^[1] Exodus 24:7-8. 

^[2] Exodus 24:9-11.