Holy Land

    When you think of Holy Land you probably think of Jerusalem as "The Holy Land".  However, there are many locations that became Holy because God, Jesus, or an angel had an encounter with a people.  Abraham consecrated many place as did his descendants making certain locations a Holy remembrance.  

    Mount Sinai became one of the most famous Holy places, but is rarely acknowledged as Holy.  The Israelites were God's treasure on Earth.  That is why they were a Holy people, but they could not see that.  They could not see past all they had endured in life, so God needed to do something to show them how much He loved them.  He started by having them consecrate themselves.

    God gave Moses instructions for the people to prepare them to meet God.  They took three days to become sanctified for God to come down Mount Sinai.  God wanted to take care of them, so He gave them clear boundaries.  Boundaries can be the most loving act you can do for another person.  

    The people were not to go near the mountain while He was there.  If they tried to touch Him, then they would be killed.  The people did not understand yet, but they were learning.  Moses already had been educated at the burning bush.  He was ready.

   The mountain he was engulfed by smoke and it shook as God approached the people.  It sounded like trumpets blowing as He descended.  It must have been a awe filled, but terrifying moment.  When God was at the top of the mountain He summoned Moses to come to Him.  Then God sent him back down with more instructions and to get Aaron.

    This meeting shows how boundaries are a gift, but with this gift comes responsibility.  Obey or deal with the consequences.  This meeting is what made Mount Sinai a Holy Land.  It remains spiritually charged and I believe it will until the end of time.

Exodus 19