EXCUSES, EXCUSES

Read Exodus 3:7-12

[God] said, I will be with you; and this shall be the sign for you that it is I who sent you: when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall worship God on this mountain.

---Exodus 3:12

I have flaws, and all too often I discover something new that I cannot do well. My typical responses to spend my free time lying in bed watching TV. I cannot fail there unless I fall asleep and roll off the bed. Sometimes I use my weaknesses as an excuse not to do something. Then I say, "I can't do that because I'm too (fill in the blank).

Many people in the Bible made excuses, including Moses. When God saw the opposition of the Israelites and wanted Moses to lead them out of Egypt, Moses protested, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" Moses' excuse sounds a lot like the excuses I make. "I can't do it. I've got too many flaws. You're going to have to ask someone else." But God reassures Moses and me: "I will be with you."

Sometimes we focus on our flaws and think that we are not smart enough, talented enough, or eloquent enough. But God doesn't make us smarter or more talented or more articulate. Instead, God promises to remain with us, which is all we need. God does not erase my flaws but goes with me and fills me with courage.

Bob La Forge (New Jersey)

Dear God, continue to be with us and give us all we need to do your will. Amen

Jesus is Coming! Are you ready?