Who Am I? Shemot

“Who am I?”

Moses

Exodus 3:11

In the throes of the New Year’s celebration, the Torah Portion Shemot offers a relevant moment for resolution makers. 

Moses- in his Burning Bush encounter on Mt. Sinai- when tasked by the Almighty to deliver the Children of Israel from Egyptian bondage, asks “Who am I?” Exodus 3:11

“Who am I?” is a loaded question. It can be an inquiry into vanity, i.e. “do i look good?” It can also be a request for an honest assessment; or, it can be an expression of self-doubt or cry for help.  

The Master of the Universe’s answer to Moses was “because I’ll be with you.” Exodus 3:12. 

Moses asks the Almighty as to how he should respond if the Children of Israel inquire as to “what is his name?” God answers: tell them “I am who I am.” The Master then adds to say ” “I am” has sent me to you.” Exodus 3:14.

In making resolutions, people task themselves items such as to lose weight, exercise more, be a nicer person, make more money, and be happier person. In drafting their goals, people often do not query as to ”Who am I?” ”Who am I to lose weight?” “Who am I to exercise more?” “Who am I to be a nicer person?”

Does this lack of introspection doom resolutions?

Moses, in asking “Who am I?”, was someone who checked off all of the boxes on the loaded inquiry. He was vain, in need an honest assessment, and possessed self-doubt. His vanity was displayed when he took it upon himself to exact justice and kill a taskmaster who was mistreating a Hebrew slave. His need for an honest assessment was apparent when he decided to climb Mt. Sinai, the mountain of God. His self-doubt emerged when the Almighty provided him the enormous task of delivering the Children of Israel from bondage.

As we move forward through this calendar year, we will continue to read about Moses’ resolve to accomplish the mission he was tasked with and accepted. Moses’ belief in completing the mission surpassed even the Almighty’s expectations. When the Master of the Universe was prepared to abandon the problematic Children of Israel on multiple occasions, Moses interceded. 

For those who will take the time and complete to rest of the Torah that comes after this portion, they will discover how Moses’ journey will eventually lead him to the answer of his inquiry “Who Am I?” The answer, in the end, is “I am Moses”. In history, his name is attached to many positives that have transformed the world to be a better place. 

In the end, Moses’ self was filled with his belief both for himself as an individual as well as in the Master and Creator of the Universe. Belief may be part of the recipe for success. With respect to resolution making, perhaps it is moment to crank up the karaoke machine and put on Rock Band Journey’s ”Don’t Stop Believing!” for a moment of inspiration.

Be well!!

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