Like an ox

 

Exodus 33:1-6

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For about a week now, I have been, literally, stiff-necked. Several projects have required my attention be set on a computer screen a bit more than usual. My eyes are typically the first to signal it's time for me to get up from the desk. This time, it's been my neck. That is, of course, a physical affliction. But it's easy to make a few spiritual connections. As a reminder, in Exodus 33, the Lord told the Israelites it was time to get up and go to the land promised to their ancestors. God would not, however, "go up among" the people. Instead, an angel would go before them. God's reasoning was the people would not last one moment with God as companion. The Lord's holiness would consume them because they were "a stiff-necked people." This word comes after God punished Israel for their constructing of the golden calf. It seemed clear the people were not going to be totally able or willing to leave behind their idolatrous tendencies. Now, they would still live into God's promise. But they had to learn something about who they were. So, what are the qualities of a stiff-necked people? Stubbornness seems to be the go-to characteristic. They are literally "hard of neck." That is, they cannot be led. Most commentators see this as an agricultural image of a willful ox. The animal seems intent on pulling his own way. My recent stiffness reminded me how much of a shared experience that is for us all. At first, I was sure I didn't choose to be stiff-necked. After all, I had work to accomplish. But did I need to be so adamant about sitting through the pain just to get something done? Turns out I didn't choose my stiff neck. I just didn't turn away from it enough. And something else about a sore neck is it doesn't just go away. I've felt it while I'm reading, watching TV, sitting, walking, preaching and driving. The pain of it goes with me everywhere. So much for thinking my faith is a Sunday-only project. No, our stubbornness goes far beyond the realm of personal piety. Thankfully, God's stiff-necked people today have another promise. The assurance that God's presence does go with us. That the Spirit's work can soften our hearts and relieve our obstinacy, turning us away from being self-led toward becoming more Spirit-led people. Stay blessed...john