The people believe. They hear that the Lord has visited the children of Israel and looked upon their affliction, and they bow their heads and worship.
The response has several elements. First, faith is stirred. The people believe not because Moses is impressive, but because God has spoken and acted.
Second, God is recognized as present and attentive. To say that He has “visited” them means He has come near and has not forgotten them.
Third, compassion is recognized. God has looked upon their affliction. Their suffering mattered to Him.
Finally, worship is the response. They bow their heads in humility, reverence, and surrender. Before circumstances have changed, hope is born through God’s word, and worship rises.
This is a fitting conclusion to the chapter: when God’s word is heard, His presence recognized, and His compassion believed, the proper response is worship.
The people believe. They hear that the Lord has visited the children of Israel and looked upon their affliction, and they bow their heads and worship.
The response has several elements. First, faith is stirred. The people believe not because Moses is impressive, but because God has spoken and acted.
Second, God is recognized as present and attentive. To say that He has “visited” them means He has come near and has not forgotten them.
Third, compassion is recognized. God has looked upon their affliction. Their suffering mattered to Him.
Finally, worship is the response. They bow their heads in humility, reverence, and surrender. Before circumstances have changed, hope is born through God’s word, and worship rises.
This is a fitting conclusion to the chapter: when God’s word is heard, His presence recognized, and His compassion believed, the proper response is worship.