In today's reading we find Moses as a man without a country. He has become a shepherd working for his father-in-law. He is no longer counted among the learned and the clever, but more like a mere child as spoken of by Jesus. His life is simple and unassuming and ever vigilant that he might be caught for the murder he committed.

He is a man well aware of his own weakness and unworthiness before God in the face of what God is asking him to do. When we think of outstanding leaders, whether religious or civic, we need remember that they are not as full of confidence as they might appear.

I say this not to judge but to learn a lesson. God may be calling you to do something for which you feel unprepared or unworthy. Jesus reminds us in the gospel today: We are not called because of who we are or because of our own greatness; but we are called to reveal to others the revelation that God has given to us; to reveal his greatness and mercy and love.

When Moses first approached the burning bush, he was merely curious. When he heard the voice of God he was stupefied. He had to be reminded of a gesture of humility. According to the custom of those times it was taking off one's sandals as a sign of respect.

At the beginning of every liturgy we spiritually remove our sandals by acknowledging the Lordship of God and begging his mercy. It is not meant as an examination of conscience or even act of contrition but as a drawing into the awareness of being in the Divine presence no less than Moses was at the burning bush.

After the penitential rite, we hear the word of God in the scriptures reminding us through the example of others what it is like to be human, to be a child of God to whom he reveals what is hidden from the learned and the clever.

There is no need to be afraid. No need to give up. Remember Moses was once a "basket case", even a murderer, but God was able to use him because Moses realized that with God's call to do something comes the grace to do it.

Speak Lord for your servant is listening.