The Burning Bush

Come and see what happens when Moses finds a little bush that burns and burns but never burns away. Listen closely, for God has something wonderful to say — and a promise that is just for you, too.

Far out by a quiet mountain called Horeb, God’s own mountain, Moses walked along with his woolly sheep. He led them to soft green grass and cool, clear water, just like a good shepherd should. The sun was warm, and the only sounds were gentle baas and the wind whispering in the grass. Moses loved his sheep, and he watched over every single one. It was a calm and ordinary day — until something happened that was not ordinary at all.

Up ahead, Moses saw a little bush, and the bush was on fire. Bright flames danced all over it, glowing orange and gold. But the strangest thing was this — the bush did not burn up. Its leaves stayed green and its branches stayed strong, right in the middle of the fire. “How can this be?” Moses wondered, and he stepped a little closer to see.

Then, from inside the fire, God called out, “Moses! Moses!” Moses stood very still and quiet. “Here I am,” he answered softly. God said, “Do not come any closer. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.” So Moses slipped off his sandals, and he covered his face, for he knew that God Himself was near.

God said gently, “I have seen my people in Egypt, and I have heard them crying. They are hurting, and I love them so much.” Then God told Moses something big. “I am sending you,” He said. “Go to Egypt and lead my people out, to a good land flowing with milk and honey.” Moses could hardly believe it — God had a special job, just for him.

But Moses felt very small and afraid. “Who am I to do such a big thing?” he asked. And God made him the very best promise of all. “I will be with you,” God said. Then Moses asked, “What is Your name, so I can tell them?” And God said, “I AM.” Moses was still afraid. “Please, Lord, send someone else,” he said. So God sent Moses’ brother, Aaron, to help him. Moses took a deep breath and set off for Egypt — and he would never, ever be alone.

Thank You, God, for calling Moses and going with him all the way to Egypt. Thank You that You are always with me too, every single day, no matter what.