First cut
1) Notice please that this chapter precedes the instructions for the tabernacle, the portable temple of the presence of god. it follows the 'covenant code." In its way, it is a communion liturgy. Look at v. 9-11 just prior to our reading.

 

2) Earlier, Moses is to be alone, but Joshua is with him still. Even Aaron is left behind. He and Hur are resolvers of disputes.

 

3) Now Moses is at the pinnacle. The sabbath day God calls Moses from within the cloud. Notice that it looks different to those below. If you are so inclined, this is a good time to get a handle on the transcendent God, the holy God.

 

4) Right before Lent, we get forty days communing with God. I tend to read glory as the presence of god. Moses gets to be in the abode of god. Moses is a mediator between God and Israel.

 

5) the way this is lined up with transfiguration, some slow time noting similarities and difference would be worthwhile.