Our scripture this morning is Deuteronomy 4:1 (ESV).
And now, O Israel, listen to the statutes and the rules that I am teaching you, and do them, that you may live, and go in and take possession of the land that the Lord, the God of your fathers, is giving you.
Translators have used a variety of words to describe the commandments God has given – the Law, ordinances, Word. All of these are to help us see that we need boundaries and instructions in order to live together as God intends. At that time the Law covered both religious activities and civil behavior. The people had no previous experience with self government and needed a basis for their society. While Christians are not bound by the provisions of the Law as it was, we are called to live under the law of love Christ died and rose to give us. In Matthew 5:17 He told us “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” The Law was given to protect us (sadly) from each other and deepen our connection to God. When we live under His forgiveness, we need no other protection.
Loving Lord, we are sorry for the times we go our own way and fail You. Forgive us and bless us to share Your love with everyone. Amen.
