Exodus 33-35

“Take us as Thine own possession” (34:9).  Moses argued that having God’s angel lead the Israelites wasn’t good enough (33:2).  Even though God still promised “a land flowing with milk and honey” (v3), Moses knew that the real treasure was God’s own presence among them.  And God responded to Moses’ plea.  God re-wrote the Law, spoke with Moses regularly at the “tent of meeting,” and anointed the people with skill and generosity to build the Tabernacle (ch 35). 

God’s presence set Israel apart from her neighbors.  Learning to live in His presence, with humility and trust, was Israel’s reward.