Day 10 - Exodus 15:22-17:7 - Daily Bread

Connecting to the Larger Story

After the tenth plague to hit Egypt, Pharaoh relented and let the Israelites leave. As Moses led them into the wilderness toward the promise land, Pharaoh again changed his mind and pursued them, trapping them at the water's edge. The people panicked and complained against Moses, but Moses prayed to God. Moses parted the waters, and the Israelites passed through escaping their pursuers who were drowned as the waters returned. As the people began their journey now safe from Pharaoh and headed to the Promised Land, they continued their habit of complaining whenever things became difficult. 

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Important to Note

1) The people had seen a great miracle in their escape from Egypt, yet they quickly fall to grumbling and wishing they had died in Egypt to avoid such a fate as being thirsty or hungry on the way to their freedom. This happens not once but repeatedly.
2) The people blame Moses and Aaron for their hardships, but their true complaint is with God whom they have yet to fully trust.

Thoughts for Reflection

1) Why do people a "what have you done for me lately" attitude in complaining against the very people (or God) who have helped them in the past when they face a new trial?
2) Who do we blame for our troubles when the issue is actually a lack of trust in the work of God that is unfolding before us?