The Grammar of Grace: Readings from the Christian Tradition

There is a moment in the life of Moses when the significance of the incarnation becomes apparent. God covers Moses with his hand so he will not be destroyed by the proximity of God's glory. Already God had promised his covenant faithfulness for Moses and his people, but it was not enough for Moses. "My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest," God assured (Exod 33:14). The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob promised to surely go with Moses and his complaining and rebellious Hebrews. Moses desires more: "Show me your glory, I pray" (v. 18). Let me not merely know your promise to be near, Moses desires, but let me see you; let me encounter the shining weight of your presence. The request draws God's sharp warning, and then God shields Moses with his hand as he passes by, a merciful concession. "You cannot see my face," God warns, "for no one shall see me and live" (v. 20).