24th Sunday C

In the Exodus reading we see the power of intercessory prayer. It is fair to say that God is ready to give the Israelites what they deserve for the actions. As sinners, all of us should be aware of what we deserve. But God is merciful. At the intercession of Moses, he spares the people.

Notice God offers Moses a promise of blessing and is willing to spare him from the wrath he is prepared to pour out on the Israelites. Moses does not think of himself, but of the people. His act of love for the people touches God's heart.

Moses must have been offended by the behavior of the people, yet he finds forgiveness in his heart. Forgiveness and mercy make powerful aids to our prayers of intercessions.