Exodus 19

I'm at the point where Moses has been summoned to the top of Mount Sinai. Chapter 19 is very much a scene-setting chapter -- it dramatically paves the way for the famous chapters following which cover the Ten Commandments. I am anxious to reach this upcoming section of Exodus, for I'm sure an in-depth look at the Commands of God will reveal powerful truths. But, all the same, Chapter 19 had some great revelations. For one, it continues to emphasize the role of Moses as mediator. It also begins to clarify the role of the priests in the social order that is quickly forming among the Hebrew tribes. The Lord says that Israel shall be a "priestly kingdom" (Exodus 19:6), and that the "priests also that come to the Lord, let them be sanctified" (Exodus 19:22). It is clear that Moses stands apart from his people as God's chosen intermediary, but next in line are the priests (an ancient model of the Church should at this point be apparent). A hierarchy is forming, being guided by the direct voice of God. And up next will be one of the most specific and focused set of rules ever given to a people -- a revolutionary example of order and law. Up next are the Ten Commandments.