When my father was far from home, in the 1920s, working in Saigon, a letter back home would take 6 weeks, and the reply another 6 weeks! But that was much quicker than in previous generations.
Using Skype to chat with assorted far flung friends has been so much better - and cheaper - that using the normal phones, because we can see each other. That adds another level of communication.
In a startling description, it is said that Moses spoke with the Lord, face to face. 'Inside the Tent of Meeting, the Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend.' (Exodus 33.11)
This suggests a wonderful level of both familiarity in their relationship, but also a deep trust and a sense of being deeply known.
Indeed, the next part of the story has Moses in a probing exploration of how this friendship with the Lord was going to show itself in experience. Moses was not content just to keep his relationship shallow and trivial. He wanted to know the Lord deeply. 'One day Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Take these people up to the Promised Land.’ But you haven’t told me whom you will send with me. You have told me, ‘I know you by name, and I look favourably on you.’ If it is true that you look favourably on me, let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favour. And remember that this nation is your very own people.”
The Lord replied, “I will personally go with you, Moses, and I will give you rest—everything will be fine for you.” (Exodus 33.12-14)
I long to have this sort of deep and trusting relationship with the Lord, and I often imagine myself talking face to face with Him. I need to listen to His words, through Scripture and reflection, and I need also to probe whether my ideas and plans, hopes and dreams are in line with His will and way.
But that is how good conversations with trusted friends go.
Best wishes,
Richard
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