In the attic, carefully packed in boxes, lie dozens of letters written by two young people separated by hundreds of miles, and it is longing that opens this reflection. The speaker moves from ordinary human longing to the plea of Moses, who after the golden calf refused to move on without God’s presence and dared to say: show me your glory (Exodus 33). The sermon explains that experiencing God’s presence is not an emotional high but coming to know his character, and that this can be practised day by day. Listen if it feels as though God has fallen silent in your life.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- In Exodus 33 God promises Israel an angel but says He Himself will not go with them. Why is the guidance of an angel not enough for Moses, and what does he really fear?
- God answers the request "show me your glory" by proclaiming His name, goodness, grace and mercy (Exodus 33:18-23; 34:6-7). What does this tell us about what experiencing God's glory actually means?
- Moses speaks with God as a person speaks with a friend: honestly, even negotiating. What does your conversation with God look like today, and what helps you be more open and honest in it?
- The speaker says Christians are not set apart by numbers, great services or even good deeds, but by God's presence. In practice, what do you think distinguishes a community where God is present?
- According to the sermon, experiencing God's presence is not an emotional high or awe at nature, but a truth about God's character reaching your heart. When has a specific quality of God, such as His faithfulness or grace, become real to you?
- Brother Lawrence practiced awareness of God's presence in the kitchen and in simple tasks. In which ordinary activity this week do you want to consciously remember God and talk with Him?
