COMMENTARY
Lesson 1: Exodus 33:12-23 (C)
Moses seeks the favor and sight of Yahweh. Yahweh is still angry over the golden calf. True to Yahweh's promise, Moses is to lead the people to the Promised Land, but Yahweh says he will not go with them lest his wrathful presence destroy them. To overcome the wrath, the people take off their ornaments to express their repentance and to appease Yahweh. In the meeting Moses pleads with Yahweh to go with them. Since his presence is what makes Israel distinct from all other peoples. Yahweh assures Moses that he has found favor and promises to go with him and the people to the Promised Land. Then Moses asks another favor: to see Yahweh face-to-face and his glory. Yahweh explains that no one can see his face and live, but as he passes by, Moses may get…