Wednesday 30 March 2011

Background

The book of Deuteronomy tells the story of the last days ofMoses' leadership of the Israelites. He is handing over to Joshua,and is keen to make sure that everyone knows the law he has beengiven by God. In some texts, Deuteronomy is translated as"repeating the law", which is exactly what it does. It is a book ofinstructions and exhortations to obedience. This passage fitsperfectly in its context. However, there is a revelation in verse7. The Israelites have encountered diverse peoples and diverse godsin their journey, but these gods are distant and remain apart.Yahweh is different. Here we see God who is at the centre of thosewho follow God's call. God sets clear boundaries and expectsobedience, but does not give orders and leave. God remains close byto love and support God's people.

God has not changed. Jesus allows us to encounter God intimately.If we study the Gospels we get a glimpse of how incredible God is,furthermore we and can experience God's personal invitation to partof God's family. Yes, the instructions are specific; yes, we areexpected to follow the rules; and yes, we are to remember that therules remain unchanged even today. But we are given strength andsupport from God who remains both around us and within us.

To Ponder

This reading reminds us that faith and obedienceare interlinked. How far do you follow the instructions God hasgiven you even when they don't seem to make sense?

God has chosen to be with us as we live ourlives. How do we confess the presence of the living God in ourdaily living?

If we are to know God intimately we need toexperience God daily. What do you do to seek God each day? Andwhere and how do you find God?