Exodus 33 The Lord was prepared to send Moses and the people of Israel up into the promised land.. without going with them.  Moses couldn't  even fathom this possibility. He had grown accustomed to being in God's presence continually.  He knew God just about as much as any man could..  besides Christ Himself .... "Thus the Lord used to speak to Moses face to face, just as a man speaks to his friend."  Moses did not want to lose this intimacy with the Lord. 

Moses pleaded with God ...  "I pray to Thee, if I have found favor in Thy sight, let me know Thy ways, that I may know Thee, so that I may find favor in Thy sight.. " Even though he had an intimate relationship with God.. he longed for more. "I pray Thee, show me Thy glory!"  God answered that prayer. 

The Lord had Moses stand on a rock.. then He covered him with His own hand and passed by Him, took His hand away and allowed Moses to see His back.  Moses found favor with the Lord and their relationship was even more precious.... and different than any other throughout history. 

The Lord said, ".. I have known you by name."  He listened to Moses' prayers and answered in HIs grace and compassion. He did go with Israel.. knowing that they were obstinate.. and knowing that a time would come when He would judge many of them. But, He went because Moses asked Him to. 

Father, may we also find favor in Your sight.  You do know us.. intimately. You know us each by name. We seek to know You more.. to see Your glory.. to hear Your voice.  We plead for Your Presence among us.. in our homes.. in our churches.. in our nation.  May it be said of us that we are Your people.  May Your grace and kindness flow over us, for we cannot do anything without You.  Jesus, You are the vine and we are the branches and we can do nothing without You . Abide in us and we in You we pray, in Your precious name. Amen.