I think about Moses reaction the first time he spoke with God from the burning bush. He gave many excuses to God before he agreed to lead the Israelites out of captivity. A lot has happened since then. Moses is the only person who ever spoke with God face to face (Ex 33:11). And saw the glory of God pass by him from behind (Ex 33:19-23). And his name will be remembered for all generations to come.
Yet Moses was not permitted to enter the promised land because of his disobedience to God.
We sometimes will bear the pain of our sins even though the sin has been forgiven. Moses, one of the greatest prophets ever to live, accepted his discipline that would deny him the privilege of entering the Promised Land and still he praised God. He spoke words that showed his love for God and his praise. “I will proclaim the Name of the Lord, Oh praise the greatness of our God! He is the Rock, his works are perfect and all his ways are just.” (32:3-4) Moses may have been disciplined for his action during the exodus (Number 20:12) but God always called him friend.
And so Moses’ life comes to end and a new chapter of the divine story begins. The reins of leadership have been passed on to Joshua.
Blessings
Pastor Kathy