Do a web search for “burning bush,” and you’ll discover some beautiful red shrubs. Do a search for “the burning bush,” and you’ll find images of a bush that is on fire but is not burned up. What is that about?

The explanation from salvation history is straightforward: by means of a burning bush God reveals himself and his purpose to use Moses to free his chosen people enslaved in Egypt.

Here again we see that God intends to keep the promise he made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, from whom Moses and the enslaved Israelites are descended. We also see the role of mediator introduced, with Moses standing between God and his people. Without Moses’ leadership, we are told in several places, the people of Israel are like sheep without a shepherd. Helpless, in other words.

In the light of Christmas, we see that Moses’ role points to another mediator. The mediator whose birth we celebrate on Christmas stands perfectly between God and his children as the ultimate fulfillment of all God’s promises.

Let your heart long for the Mediator who brings God’s people out of slavery to sin and death, Jesus Christ, our Savior.