Exodus 32:32 But now, please forgive their sin—but if not, then blot me out of the book you have written.”
Commentary points out that Moses offers himself as a sacrifice, which is exactly what Jesus does in the New Testament. I overlooked that fact. What I did notice was that Moses, who was livid with Aaron and the Israelites, asked for forgiveness for the people of Israel, “but if not, then blot me out of the book you have written.” Why?
Exodus 32:33 The Lord replied to Moses, “Whoever has sinned against me I will blot out of my book.
Does he ask to be blotted out if they aren’t forgiven because he is their earthly leader? Because he has spiritual responsibility for them? He was livid about their behavior. He was livid with Aaron. But unlike Aaron, he doesn’t shrug his shoulders and claim ignorance at how they ended up in this mess. What’s going on?
Exodus 32:34 Now go, lead the people to the place I spoke of, and my angel will go before you. However, when the time comes for me to punish, I will punish them for their sin.”
Precious Savior, Thank You for this journey through Exodus, for the questions I’ve asked, for the wisdom I have gained. Thank You for drawing me closer to You, even when I don’t understand. Help me have eyes to see You and ears to hear You and always seek to draw closer to You. Amen.
Exodus 32:35 And the Lord struck the people with a plague because of what they did with the calf Aaron had made.
Have a blessed day.