Steady Until Sunset

"But Moses’ hands grew weary, so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it, while Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side. So his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.” Exodus 17:12

Tucked in Exodus 17 is a beautiful story about Moses in his later years. A battle was upon his people and Moses went to the top of a hill, raised his arms, and held them high as an appeal to God as an ongoing request for victory. As long as he pointed his palms to heaven his army was succeeding, but when he lowered them the Amalekites began gaining strength. The next part of the story is so tender…so precious…so exemplary. Aaron was the brother of Moses and Hur was a companion to both. As they looked to Moses at some point what they saw must have entreated them to help. Scripture states that they found a stone and placed it beneath him as a seat for him to rest. Then each one held up one of Moses’ arms to position the battle for victory. What did they see as they looked upon this strong leader that made their hearts feel for him? Were his arms quivering as he pointed them to heaven? Could he barely hold his head up knowing so much more battle had to be fought? Were his legs about to buckle beneath him? Whatever these caring men witnessed, what was important is that they came along side him to help him in the battle.

I have two sisters remaining on earth with me and one in heaven. When our sister Beth was diagnosed with cancer it was a brutal 11-month battle. But Beth has always been one with a spirit for fight and this one was no different. Our little band of sisters were stronger by watching her strength. We were hopeful by witnessing her hope. We were inspired by watching her rise above the constant pain and squeeze every drop of living out of a situation losing its pulse. As the cancer spread her body weakened but she continued to press into God. She continued to lift her arms and claim healing even when her body was quivering with sickness. Our family took turns ‘holding up her arms’ as we alternately spent nights at the Hospice House. There were days when we needed each other to hold our arms up as we held up hers. It was heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time…messy and meaningful…chaotic and glorious. Over and over again we saw Jesus in the midst of the battle. Jesus walked the hallways of the Hospice House, and joined us in our family prayers at her bedside. As her body weakened her spirit gained strength. We could see that the battle would soon be over and that Heaven would offer her the spoils of war. Spoils that earth could never offer…beauty that this world does not possess...no more fight...no more despair...no more pain.

I am sure that you have held up the arms of another during their battle. I pray that you have a few people who are holding up your arms during your season of fight. God sends His people to nurture us…comfort us…carry us. I’m so grateful for this story that shows us the tenderness and treasure of loved family and friends whom God has placed in our lives. The blessing of those who will help us remain steady until our sunsets.