And Moses said, “Here I am.” (Exodus 3:2-4)
There are two primary ways to say, "Here I am" in Hebrew. The first is "po ani" and it is used in a roll-call kind of way or a fact about where one is (such as, "I am here at the store"). It merely reflects physical presence. The second, "hinene" (pronounced he-nay-nee), has a more profound, complete meaning. It reflects a state of readiness in the heart. It is an offer of total availability.
God is likely not appearing in a burning bush in our lives. He is, however, regularly inviting us to spend time with Him, to follow Him, to trust Him and to know Him. If we are honest, we often don't pay attention to this call; or we respond in a more 'po ani' kind of way. (ok, yeah yeah I'm here....as we check our email or texts...).
During this upcoming advent season, let's choose to respond as Moses did.
"Hinene."
"Here I am."
Preparing our hearts together...