What stuck out to me right off the bat was the reference to two wives in this reading. I know that wasn’t uncommon in those days. In the Israelite’s own history, we recall Jacob’s love for his wife Rachel, even though he was also married to her sister, Leah. Because Moses was telling the people God’s laws for them in the new land, we need to keep that in mind. The focus is on the children, not the fact there are multiple wives.
First off, we see God’s intention that the first-born son receive twice as much as the other sons. That was an ancient Israel tradition. It doesn’t matter who the mother is, it’s the son born first who is entitled to this honor. Having worked for estate attorneys before retirement, I can tell you that this isn’t the “law” anymore in the United States, particularly, Iowa. The rules of probate still differ from state to state, and certainly between countries and cultures.
In general, the wishes of the deceased are honored in terms of inheritance using their Last Will & Testament. Sometimes people die without a will, and in those cases, it is up to the courts to determine the division of property. In the area I was working, there was a hierarchy starting with the spouse, and the naturally born children equally. If there was no spouse or children, then it would pass to parents and then siblings. When a clearly defined will was not present, families would often engage in court battles to claim their rights. Interesting how all this evolved.
The next section today references a rebellious son. This is not referring to a child going through their “terrible twos” or even a teenager in the midst of their season of disrespect. This would be a grown-up who was not behaving appropriately, bringing harm to self or others, or the like. It’s good to note that parents couldn’t bring the verdict on their own child. They could, however, bring the son to the elders for a determination. I can’t think of any Biblical reference of this actually being done. Again, this was an attempt using God’s laws to purge evil from the community. God’s plan for us was for peace and harmony.
I realize today’s reading was a bit choppy when it comes to topics. The final one has to do with what to do with a dead body. I’m sure I’m not the only one who thought of Jesus hanging on the cross (a tree). We know his body was taken down and laid in the tomb of Joseph of Arimathea. But Jesus wasn’t guilty. The text reads, “If someone has committed a crime worthy of death and is executed and hung on a tree, the body must not remain hanging from the tree overnight.”
Jesus wasn’t guilty. Yet he died like a criminal. The rules for criminals applied to him. While that breaks my heart, I also know how the story continues. Jesus rose from the dead and is alive! That is the truth that fuels me each day. His Spirit is alive and well inside us, imparting wisdom, guiding our steps, filling our mouths, keeping us connected to the Father.
Take some time today to be thankful for Moses’ life and how he was used by God to bring the people these laws. Thank you for his obedience. Now ask, how does God want to use me?
Let’s pray … Lord, I know you have a plan for me, and I cherish every moment I spend in quiet time with you. Help me to appreciate all the steps it takes to get me to where you want to be. Bless each conversation, each decision, each person you will bring into my life. May I truly minister to their needs. Use me God and the gifts you have given me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
