What jumps out at you in the Exodus reading today? For me, it is “God, harden Pharaoh’s heart“. I have struggled with this in the past. I went soft and felt sorry for the poor Pharaoh. You will have to forgive me. I know now it is more like God answered even Pharaoh‘s prayer. He gave Pharaoh what Pharaoh wanted. God already knew what Pharaoh was going to do (Exodus 3:19), and we read in today’s Gospel a quote from Hosea 6:6, “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.“ God does not like the fake-it-till-you-make-it attitude. I do not think God wanted Pharaoh to simply cave in on a whim or in a moment of weakness. God desires the real Pharaoh.
Jesus wants the real us, the real me. He does not want the motions, the actions without the love, the devotion, the kindness, the mercy. I am fond of saying, “Judge my actions, not my emotions.” Today’s Gospel is making me reconsider that idea.
In closing, — if you will allow the metaphor — allow me to make a toast. As the Psalmist says, “I will take up the cup of salvation.” With gratitude, submission, and agreement, I will drink from the same cup. Today’s reading has changed how I feel when drinking the Blood of Jesus during Communion. From now on, I will be thinking of this Psalm.
P.S. I have been using Ai to assist me in research and connecting different concepts across books of the bible and scholars. I do not use it to write the reflections; any errors are all mine. If you would like to discuss how, send me a note. I am happy — and eager — to share my thoughts on the technology.
Greg Dyche
As a professor at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business, I teach courses in Management Information Systems, Analytics, and Artificial Intelligence. With over 40 years of professional experience and a commitment to helping students discover “the possibilities of technology,” I bring both technical expertise and a heart for service to my work. I am grateful to participate in Creighton’s Online Ministry, sharing in the journey of faith through daily scripture reflections.
