Deuteronomy – Page 8

Deuteronomy 15:12-18 – Release of Slaves

It’s good to remember our roots. We can be so much more appreciative of what we’ve accomplished when we can look back and see the progression of blessings. Unless of course you come from wealth, have squandered it and are left with regrets. There would be the story about the prodigal son that would speak to you.

In today’s reading, Moses is having the people remember that they were once slaves in the land of Egypt. God wants them to be better masters and take care of their own slaves in a better way. Slaves are to be released from their duties every seven years. Male slaves are supposed to be given a portion of the household, presumably so they can start their own homes and be free from slavery all together. The theme of generosity is continuing from our last reading. It also gives us a glimpse into the heart of God. He created us all with value and dignity.

Deuteronomy 15:1-11 – Release From Debts

Read Deuteronomy 15:1-11

God’s economy presented here to the Israelites seems to be very generous. If you are in debt to another, that debt is cancelled every seven years. From the reading, it appears the cycle is the same for everyone (except foreigners). On a given day, all debts with other Israelites are forgiven and life goes on. Can you imagine doing business like that?

God’s promised blessing was for those who obeyed. Who wouldn’t want to obey God to have their debts forgiven every seven years? I realize I’m writing these words in a time when the economy has taken a big hit from a pandemic. Many are wondering how they are going to make their mortgage payments and car payments. They are watching their credit card debt skyrocket. Oh, to have a year of release coming up would be like answered prayer! Some communities around the world are doing something to lessen the financial blow by not expecting payments for rent or other debts, no interest or penalty charges to be applied, and so forth. That will be a huge relief to many.

Deuteronomy 14:22-29 – Giving Your Tithe

Read Deuteronomy 14:22-29

This was an interesting passage for me. I am aware of how we tithe today. That is, setting aside 10% of our income to give it to the Lord. Since we don’t have grain or herds or such, that is how we show our faithfulness. Giving back to God a portion of what is already his is how I understand tithing works.

Why do we tithe? Moses would say, “doing this will teach you always to fear the Lord your God.” For me, it’s also a way of honoring God and giving thanks for his provision. Having a mindset of gratefulness and showing that by giving back is such a joyful practice. Even when I have had little to give, there was a joy or peace in sharing.

Deuteronomy 14:1-21 – What’s For Dinner?

Read Deuteronomy 14:1-21

What?! No more bacon or shrimp? That’s where my brain went when I read the list of what we should and shouldn’t be eating. But let’s keep the context here. Moses was writing these words to a nomadic people about to enter the promised land. They would soon be taking up residence in homes and villages on a permanent basis. They needed rules, and Moses’ duty was to set those expectations. We’ve been witnessing this all along in the book of Deuteronomy.

When it comes down to diet, there were foods thought to be ceremonially unclean and therefore not appropriate for eating. This is another example of a law given that doesn’t necessarily apply to us as followers of Christ. Jesus didn’t abolish the law, but he affirmed the parts of the law we should be focusing on. Our food choices were not necessarily at issue. However, many Jews and Muslims will still refrain from eating pork, even today.

Deuteronomy 13:1-18 – Don’t Be Led Astray

Read Deuteronomy 13:1-18

There are so many distractions that can keep us from God. There are also false prophets, feel good spirituality, and non-believers that do what they can to entice us away from our faith. It’s been going on like this for a long time. Moses had to warn his people to be careful not to go astray. God would not be pleased. I was also surprised to see that Moses told them, “the Lord your God is testing you to see if you truly love him with all your heart and soul.” I certainly don’t want to fail the test. Do you?

We do need to be careful. I, for one, don’t want to displease God. Yet, there isn’t a moment that goes by that I’m not falling short in some way, shape, or form. What is helpful, is to realize I’m not alone. Many people over the ages have struggled with temptations. You know the old saying, “the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.” Have you ever had that sense?