Father, I am amazed by how much of the moral code You gave in Torah, the first five books of the Bible, is represented in our system of law today. The last several days’ readings are filled with issues represented in our country’s legal code. Standards are set for maintaining property lines, fair measures in trade, witnesses being necessary rather than relying on hearsay testimony, determination of false testimony and punishing it. It is not merely causing a death, but also taken into consideration is the motivation behind the act that is judged, whether there is ‘malice aforethought’.
You deal with property law when passing an inheritance, capital punishment, homeowner’s liability, divorce, charging interest on loans and how to handle collateral. In all Your determinations You call for justice to all, and for mercy in the care for the underprivileged and marginalized.
Our second president and signer of the Constitution, John Adams said “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” And the Bible is where these values came from. You knew, way back then, what our society would need today. And provided for it.
Yet even when I fail and disobey these laws, or sin, You have made a way of placing me back in right standing with You. You took upon Yourself the penalty of my sin, and paid my debt.
But for those who do not accept Your payment, there will be a reckoning. If they refuse Your gift, they will spend eternity separated from You. They will be held accountable for the decision they make, whether to accept You as God, or reject You.
For me, I will give thanks to You. Strengthen me to turn away from sin. Help me love You as I should; and love my neighbor. Show me when I can help my neighbor, and how. Thank You Father, that You, who judge, are just. Amen
Deuteronomy 17:1-25:16; Luke 10:13-37; Psalm 75:1-10
Daily Bible Prayer 