THEOSISJerome of Stridon
Moses and Samuel both displayed remarkable acts of intercession before God. Moses stood in opposition to divine wrath, pleading with God when He declared, “Therefore forsake Me, that My wrath may be kindled against them, and I will destroy them” (Ex. 32:10). Observe the profound influence Moses had! God’s words to him reveal the weight of his intercession: “Leave Me; you constrain Me; your prayers are like a restraint on Me; your pleas hinder My hand. I send arrows and cast spears, yet your prayers shield the people. Depart from Me and I shall bring destruction upon them.” Additionally, notice the compassion of God!
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When He instructs, “Leave Me,” it signifies that if Moses does not abandon Him, the people shall be spared: “If thou wilt not forsake Me, I will not destroy the people: forsake Me, and I will destroy them.” Essentially, the message is clear: “If you remain, I will not bring destruction.” Now, let us examine whether Samuel exemplified the same dedication. In the Book of Kings, it is noted that he turned aside God’s anger towards the people, and although it was the season of harvest, the Lord sent rain accompanied by thunder and lightning. What is recorded? As the Israelites fled down the slopes of Mount Bethoron, the Lord unleashed great hailstones upon them from heaven (Num. 10:11). Notice the strength of fire and hail! Where Samuel stands, the lightning refrains from striking; they recognize the prophet of God, the Levite. Samuel’s hands posed a challenge to the lightning. He prayed, and the lightning ceased. Why do I recount these events? Both Moses, Aaron, and Samuel, under different roles, accomplished equally mighty deeds. Praise be to the Lord, to whom glory belongs forever. Amen.