Meaning of Exodus 2:20

This verse reveals Reuel's (also known as Jethro, the priest of Midian) paternal concern and hospitality towards the stranger who had rescued his daughters. Having been brought home by his daughters, Moses, who had previously fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian, is now in the presence of his father-in-law. Reuel, upon learning that Moses was left behind, expresses a natural curiosity and a desire to honor their guest with food, a fundamental act of welcome and respect in ancient Near Eastern cultures. This interaction highlights the immediate integration of Moses into the Midianite community and foreshadows the significant role Reuel will play in Moses' life and leadership.

Context and Background

The preceding verses detail how Moses, after fleeing Egypt, came to the well in Midian. There, he intervened on behalf of Reuel's daughters, who were being harassed by local shepherds, and subsequently watered their flock. Impressed by Moses' actions, the daughters brought him home to their father, Reuel. This verse marks the point where Reuel directly addresses Moses, acknowledging his presence and the circumstances under which he arrived. The daughters had evidently left Moses at the well, perhaps out of haste or a desire to report back to their father first, prompting Reuel's question.

Key Themes and Messages

• Hospitality and Generosity: Reuel's immediate response is to offer food, a paramount expression of hospitality in the ancient world. This demonstrates a welcoming spirit towards a stranger, reflecting a cultural value of caring for those in need.
• Paternal Concern and Wisdom: Reuel's question, "And where is he?" and subsequent instruction, "Invite him to have something to eat," shows a leader's attentiveness and responsibility towards those within his sphere of influence, even a recent guest.
• Divine Providence: Though not explicitly stated here, this event is part of God's unfolding plan for Moses' life, providing him refuge and a new life away from Pharaoh's wrath, preparing him for his future role.
• Integration and Acceptance: Moses is not treated as an outsider but is quickly brought into the family fold, setting the stage for his marriage to Zipporah and his life as a shepherd.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This passage underscores the importance of extending kindness and hospitality, even to those we do not know. It reflects God's own character, who provides for and welcomes all who turn to Him. For individuals, it encourages empathy and a willingness to share resources and fellowship. It also subtly points to God's unseen hand in guiding individuals to places of safety and provision, even in times of distress or exile.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This episode is a crucial transitional phase in Moses' life, marking the end of his Egyptian sojourn and the beginning of his forty years in Midian. It is during this period that Moses is transformed from an Egyptian prince into a humble shepherd, a necessary preparation for the immense leadership task God would later assign him. Reuel's acceptance of Moses is a vital step in this divine process, allowing Moses to gain experience, wisdom, and a family outside of the oppressive Egyptian environment.

Analogies

• A Harbor in a Storm: Moses, fleeing persecution and uncertainty, finds a safe harbor and sustenance in Reuel's home, much like a ship finding refuge from a tempest.
• Planting Seeds for Future Growth: Reuel's hospitality is like providing fertile ground and water for a seed, which will eventually grow into a mighty tree that shelters many.
• A Bridge to Destiny: This encounter serves as a bridge, connecting Moses' past life in Egypt with his future calling as the deliverer of Israel.

Relation to Other Verses

• Genesis 18:2-5: This passage recounts Abraham's hospitality to three visitors, a clear example of the importance of welcoming strangers, a principle echoed in Reuel's actions.
• Hebrews 13:2: "Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it." This New Testament verse reinforces the value of hospitality, suggesting a spiritual dimension to such acts, which may have been implicitly understood in Reuel's generous gesture.
• Exodus 3:1-10: This later narrative highlights God's calling of Moses from the wilderness of Midian, where he had lived and learned for decades, directly referencing the life he built after fleeing Egypt.