Introduction
In this devotional, we'll explore Exodus 1-3 and Matthew 15:21-39, passages that highlight themes of oppression, deliverance, and divine compassion. These scriptures from different eras provide rich insights into God's response to human suffering, His call to leaders, and the demonstration of His power and mercy, all within the context of Reformed and covenant theology.
Exodus 1-3 Summary
Exodus 1-3 describes the Israelites' increasing oppression in Egypt and the early life of Moses. The Pharaoh, fearing the Israelites' growing numbers, subjects them to harsh slavery. Amidst this, Moses is born, preserved from a decree to kill Hebrew boys, and eventually raised in Pharaoh's household. After killing an Egyptian, Moses flees to Midian, where he encounters God in the burning bush. God calls Moses to lead His people out of Egypt, revealing His name, "I AM," and promising deliverance for His oppressed people.
Matthew 15:21-39 Summary
In Matthew 15:21-39, Jesus’ ministry extends to non-Israelites, illustrating His compassion and the inclusivity of God's kingdom. The Canaanite woman's faith results in her daughter’s healing, demonstrating faith's power regardless of ethnic background. Jesus then feeds the four thousand, echoing the miracle of the five thousand but in a predominantly Gentile area. These acts of Jesus show His divine authority and the expansive reach of His ministry.
Key Theological Concepts
Oppression, Deliverance, and Divine Call: Exodus 1-3 shows God’s response to oppression and His call to Moses for deliverance, paralleled in Matthew by Jesus’ response to the Canaanite woman and His miraculous provision.
God’s Compassion and Inclusivity: The stories of Moses and Jesus both highlight God's compassion towards the suffering and His inclusive plan of salvation, central in Reformed theology's understanding of God’s character and redemptive work.
Divine Authority and Revelation: God revealing Himself to Moses and Jesus performing miracles in Matthew both demonstrate divine authority and the revelation of God's nature and purposes.
Reflection
Exodus 1-3 and Matthew 15:21-39, while distinct in setting and narrative, converge in their portrayal of God’s response to human need and His power to deliver and provide. The call of Moses to liberate the Israelites and the extension of Jesus’ miracles to a Gentile population both reflect the breadth of God's compassion and the inclusivity of His redemptive plan. These passages encourage us to recognize God's concern for all who suffer and His authority over all circumstances.
Application Points
Respond to God’s Call in Your Life: Inspired by Moses’ call and Jesus’ ministry, be attentive to how God might be calling you to address the needs and sufferings around you.
Embrace God's Compassion and Inclusivity: Reflect on the inclusivity of Jesus’ ministry and God's compassion for all people, challenging any boundaries that might limit your understanding of God’s love.
Trust in Divine Authority and Provision: Be reassured by God's sovereignty and Jesus' power to provide, as seen in the miracles and the burning bush encounter.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we examine the stories of Moses in Exodus and the compassionate acts of Jesus in Matthew, we are reminded of Your deep concern for the oppressed and Your power to save and provide. Help us to hear Your call in our lives and to respond with faith and action. May we embody Your compassion and inclusivity, reaching out to those in need, trusting in Your divine authority and provision. Guide us to live out the truths of Your kingdom, reflecting Your love and grace to all. In the name of Jesus, our Redeemer and Lord, we pray. Amen.