- Scripture:
Pharaoh heard about it and tried to kill Moses, but Moses got away to the land of Midian. He sat down by a well. The priest of Midian had seven daughters. They came and drew water, filling the troughs and watering their father’s sheep. When some shepherds came and chased the girls off, Moses came to their rescue and helped them water their sheep. When they got home to their father, Reuel, he said, “That didn’t take long. Why are you back so soon?” “An Egyptian,” they said, “rescued us from a bunch of shepherds. Why, he even drew water for us and watered the sheep.”
He said, “So where is he? Why did you leave him behind? Invite him so he can have something to eat with us.” Moses agreed to settle down there with the man, who then gave his daughter Zipporah (Bird) to him for his wife. She had a son, and Moses named him Gershom (Sojourner), saying, “I’m a sojourner in a foreign country.”
Exodus 2:15–22 MSG
- Reflection:
Helper or Stopper
Today's story takes place at a classic gathering spot: a well for drawing water. Many Bible stories feature encounters around a well, such as Jesus meeting "the woman at the well", the line of Isaac and Jacob meeting their wives at wells, and even Joseph being thrown into one by his brothers. A wide variety of things can happen when people come to the watering hole. Even though the daughters were supposed to be there, if any men came around the well, they could take control of it. Moses minds his own business sitting by the well, but when he sees the women get chased away, he "came to their defense and watered their flock." He didn't necessarily have to do that, but it was a kind thing to do. It's a story as old as time: people with power, prestige, or popularity pick on those they view as "lesser." There are bystanders around, but what will they do or not do? Moses chooses to stand up to the bullies and help the women water their father's flock.
Where do we go from here?
Where are the patterns in your life leading you? How can you transition from being an innocent bystander to becoming a helper? Can you be a friend to someone you've never met? All of these questions lead us to reflect on the life of Christ and how he conducted himself while on earth. Be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Our Prayer for Today
Father, help us recognize the humanity in all people. May we courageously stand up for one another and be your hands and feet in the world. Amen.
Coach Arthur Poston Jr.
Focused Development Organization
Middle School Coach