COMMENTARY

Exodus 3:1-15 (C), Exodus 3:1-8b, 10-15 (L). Exodus 3:1-8, 13-15 (RC)
Moses is called to deliver God's people from bondage in Egypt.

While tending his father-in-law's sheep, Moses is called by Yahweh to return to Egypt to lead out his oppressed people. First Yahweh must get Moses' attention by having a bush burn without burning up. Because God is present, Moses is ordered to remove his sandals, for he is on holy ground. Wherever God exists, the place becomes sacred. Yahweh tells Moses that he is concerned about his people in slavery and commands him to lead them out to a good land. Moses feels inadequate to do this, but Yahweh promises to be with him. Then comes the problem of identification - Who is Yahweh? He discloses his nature, "I am," the same God of Moses' forefathers.…