O Adonai!

This second of the Great O Antiphons heralds the coming of the Lord, as the promised leader of the House of Israel -- He who approached Moses on Mount Sinai.

O Adonai, et Dux domus Israel, qui Moysi in igne flammae rubi apparuisti, et ei in Sina legem dedisti: Veni ad redimendum nos in brachio extento.

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O Lord, and Leader of the house of Israel, who appeared to Moses in the red fire of flame and gave him the law on Sinai: Come and redeem us with outstretched arm.

Moses himself was a leader of the House of Israel who led his people out of slavery to the Egyptians, a foreshadowing of the great Leader who would lead His people out of slavery to sin and death. Moses was a man of great faith who led his people not only by his deeds but also by his prayers. When, to avoid the Philistines, the Israelites took a longer route through the desert and encountered the Amalekites, Moses appointed Joshua to lead the Israelites in battle. Moses did not rest secure in Joshua and his men, however, he went up a hill and prayed for his people. Through his intercession, the Israelites continued their journey toward the promised land.

Let us learn from Moses that the Lord who trusts us with the responsibilities that come our way -- be they to our family, our employer, our community, our parish, etc. -- also trusts us to trust Him. Let us not forget to ask the Lord's blessing and assistance on all that we undertake in His name. For his arm is outstretched to help those who call upon Him.