A knock too far

In today’s first reading (Nm. 20:1-13), Moses makes the mistake of his lifetime.

The Lord’s response is stern.

"Because you were not faithful to me
in showing forth my sanctity before the children of Israel,
you shall not lead this community
into the land I will give them."

Moses will die and be buried within sight of the Promised Land, but not inside it.

What did he do that was so bad?

It seems that he knocked twice with his staff on the rock from which God said the water would flow: not once, but twice.

Why did Moses do this? Was it impatience? Was it a lack of faith? The text here does not say.

At first, Moses’ punishment might seem unfair and even frightening (if Moses could be punished so badly just for knocking twice instead of once, what chance do we miserable sinners have?).

The difference between Moses and us is basically twofold. On the one hand, you and I don’t regularly speak with God face to face in the same way Moses did nor have we parted the Red Sea as Moses did. It was therefore a much bigger deal for Moses to “go wobbly” – especially in front of the entire People of God.

On the other hand, compare Moses’ lack of response to the response of King David when he was told of the punishment for his biggest sin.

Then David said to Nathan,
“I have sinned against the LORD."
Nathan answered David:
“The LORD on his part has forgiven your sin:
you shall not die.”
(2 Sam. 12:13)

Moses says nothing, while David is repentent.

Of course, there would still be terrible consequences because of David’s sin, but the Lord would remain with David and would sustain him in all the things to come.

Even more so may we be assured of God’s steadfast love through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ when we repent.

(Lord Jesus Christ, son of the living God, be merciful to me – a sinner.)