God’s saving power in weakness
by Pastor Mark Lieschke
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‘She became pregnant and gave birth to a son. When she saw that he was a fine child, she hid him for three months’ (Exodus 2:2).
Moses was a fine (special) child. His life was endangered by a tyrant (Pharaoh), and so his mother hid him. He was rescued, but many other children were killed. He was chosen to be the deliverer of his people from slavery.
Jesus also was a special (unique) child, whose life was endangered by a tyrant (King Herod). His parents fled to Egypt to hide him, but many other children were killed. He too was chosen to be the deliverer of his people from slavery to sin.
In his commentary on the book of Exodus (Freed to Follow), Dr Dean Zweck makes the comment:
Exodus 2 and Matthew 2 both witness how God’s saving power is made perfect in weakness (cf 2 Cor 12:9). The power of tyrants is impressive, and that power is unleashed cruelly against the fragile beginnings of God’s saving plan. In both stories rescue from an impossible situation is effected through the most unlikely people: an Egyptian princess and Persian astrologers. And finally, in both stories, the coming deliverance is accompanied by the suffering of people.
God’s plan for the rescue of his people runs right through the Scriptures. He has always had the best interests of his people in mind. He has worked in and through many people over many years. But as Satan has had his influence, suffering has always accompanied this plan. And even today, we face difficult and trying circumstances in our lives as the evil one creates chaos.
God’s grace, though, is not suppressed. It continues. In the middle of tragedy and loss there is always hope – sometimes coming through most unlikely people or circumstances.
God’s ultimate plan is for us to know his love and experience his grace and share this with others. That plan came to its climax and fulfilment with the birth, life, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus. It is what we have recently celebrated at Christmas and will again at Easter – and every day in between.
Praise God for his plan, completed in Christ, but ongoing through us even in the middle of weakness and suffering.
Gracious Lord Jesus, reassure us that in the middle of difficult things beyond our understanding, you are present with us. Thank you for your power working within us in all circumstances, so that we can reflect your grace. In your precious name, we pray, Amen.
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