How'd we get here: The Israelites had cried out to God for liberation from their enslavement in Egypt. God sent them Moses, Aaron, and Miriam, and even parted the Red Sea so they could escape across it on dry ground. Once in safety, they enjoyed an oasis where they could eat and drink and rest their nervous systems. Our scripture reading this morning comes right as they leave that place and head out into the wilderness. Very quickly it becomes apparent that liberation isn't necessarily... easy. They're hungry, tired, thirsty, and afraid. Had Moses brought them out to this wasteland to die? Nostalgia gets them in a chokehold: It would have been better to stay in Egypt... at least we had food. The Israelites would spend the next 4 decades wandering in the wilderness, but God was about to teach them a new way to be in the world: Free. Not enslaved to task masters, but faithfully trusting in God's provision and learning to share instead of hoard. It's a lesson we still need today. Freedom is trusting that God will provide us enough for today.

This message was lead by The Reverend Jacquelyn Foxall at Knox Presbyterian Church in Oakville, Ontario, Canada on World Communion Sunday October 5th, 2025 LIVE Service

Associated Scripture: Exodus 16:1-18