As we read the story of Moses being asked by God to lead His people out of Egypt, I am captivated by the barefoot man who stands before God and replies, “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.”
God promises to help Moses speak, teach him what to say. Moses declines, “Pardon your servant, Lord. Please send someone else.”
In the midst of our Bible study, I laugh. Leaning left I whisper into the ear of
the woman next to me, “Great shoes. Are they comfortable?”
I am a sloppy flip flop or leather clogs girl myself, but the friend sitting next to me wears stilettos with fun bows and buttons. Her shoe collection is a delicious visual shopping spree, a candy store for feet.
In that moment, as I whisper, something within me envisions God as a Maker of perfect-fitting shoes. As we listen to the story, the words Moses chooses sound so respectful, so eloquent.
I am more flawed, more human, less respectful, less eloquent, more whiny…
In the spring of 2008, I half-heartedly committed to a fall conference suggested by my friend and pastor, then spent the entire summer responding to our Creator with a tenacious and tired “I Caaaaan’t” whine.
Journeying across the state that autumn, I experience an urge to turn back home at every exit along the highway. I am unable to enjoy the usual peace and solitude of driving.
I realize that I am not traveling alone.
I begin to grumble and groan. My voice scratches with frustration as I shout a single word — a less-than-eloquent “Fine!” — into the illusion of an empty car.
God accepts it as a “Yes!” and we drive on together in a comforting and welcome quiet.
I check into my hotel for the night.
The next morning, God offers me a pair of shoes called Whispered Hopes.
A perfect fit.
–R
Moses said to the LORD, “Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.”
The LORD said to him, “Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the LORD? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.”
But Moses said, “Pardon your servant, Lord. Please send someone else.”
Exodus 4:10-13 NIV
you are loved…
you are unique…
you are treasured…
you are resilient…
you are amazing…