The passage from Exodus depicts Moses interceding with God on behalf of the Israelites. God is rightfully upset that the people have begun to put their trust in a false god, the image of a molten calf, instead of the God who led them out of Egypt. Moses implored the Lord to have mercy and to remember His promises. Our psalm today even describes this by saying when God wanted to exterminate them for their lack of trust that Moses "withstood him in the breach to turn back his destructive wrath." (Ps 106:23) Wow! What an incredible image! One man standing and praying on behalf of the many, imploring God to show mercy. In this time of chaos and unsettledness may we not grow tired as did the Israelites of giving God the glory due His Holy Name and trusting in His power to overcome all calamities. But may you also be assured that we your priests are at the altar everyday, standing in the breach, imploring God on your behalf. We like Moses implore His mercy and beg Him to fulfill all His promises!