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.
After all, for the last seven years, these slaves, these people, had been giving you so many blessings. You didn’t have to lift a finger for certain tasks. Shouldn’t you want to be generous? We don’t have “slaves” per se, but since moving to Mexico we do have a maid that comes weekly and a gardener. They have their own families and their own lives, but we do feel blessed to have them in our lives. We have gotten close to our maid, and over time we have given her many things for her family. While a lot of those items are items we no longer use, it blesses us to be generous and give them to her rather than sell them ourselves. We want to bless her with what we can, so these verses spoke to me in that regard.
Many times, the slaves would choose not to be released. Perhaps they were happy with their tasks, the living quarters, with the way they were being treated. They might even have begun to feel like family. Moses had a solution for this and put it in the law. The ear piercing would signify the lifetime bond. Shouldn’t we want to stay close to our master, too? Don’t we want to devote our lives to Jesus and follow him where he leads?
So how does this speak to you? How are you being generous with the people around you? Are you sharing your wealth or keeping it all to yourself? Are you truly devoted to God, listening for his voice to lead your path?
Let’s pray … Lord, I am giving myself to you again today. You have held me all along, but it feels so good to commit myself to you often. Remind me of my mission. I want to be living in your will. Thank you for the abundance you have given me. I take delight in sharing it with others. Help me continue to be a good steward. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
