Faithful Covenant Lord,
You call Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu,
and seventy elders of Israel
to come up the mountain.
Some are to worship from a distance,
but Moses alone is invited further in.
Even in closeness, there are degrees
You are holy, and approach is on Your terms.
Moses tells the people all Your words and laws,
and they answer with one voice
“All that the LORD has spoken we will do.”
An altar is built,
twelve pillars are set for the twelve tribes,
and young men offer burnt offerings and peace offerings.
Half the blood is thrown against the altar
the side that speaks of You.
The other half is sprinkled on the people
the side that speaks of us.
In that crimson bond,
we are joined to You.
Then, in a wonder too great to imagine,
the elders of Israel go up
and see the God of Israel.
Under His feet is pavement like sapphire,
clear as the sky,
and yet they do not die.
Instead, they eat and drink in Your presence
a meal in the company of Majesty.
Afterward, You call Moses higher still,
into the cloud of glory
that rests on Sinai for six days.
On the seventh, You summon him into the fire,
where he remains for forty days and forty nights,
receiving the pattern for Your dwelling among the people.
Lord, let me never take for granted
that covenant is costly,
that nearness is purchased in blood.
Prepare me to feast in Your presence without fear,
to marvel that the Holy One shares His table with the unworthy.
And when You call me higher,
give me the patience to wait until You summon me,
and the courage to step into the cloud when You do.
In the name of Jesus,
the Mediator whose blood speaks a better word
and who prepares a greater banquet,
Amen.