"The third day" is mentioned several times in today's reading from Exodus. At first sight, it may appear to be merely a time indication. However, when we read it in the context of the many times "the third day" is mentioned throughout the Bible and other ancient Jewish writings outside the Bible, we see that very frequently the phrase had a theological meaning, and indicates a day of consolation.

The scene on mountain Sinai is quite terrifying, with peals of thunder, lightning and heavy dark clouds. Nevertheless, it is clear that God has no intention of terrifying the people. Rather the purpose of God's manifestation was that they would learn to trust Moses as God's chosen leader and that God was with them.

The people have been travelling for three months and now had to face the wilderness of Sinai. There is no indication that they were rebellious, but it is not hard to imagine that the sight of the wilderness would have caused them some disquiet and even fear. They would have needed a boost in confidence, and the consolation of knowing that God was still with them.