January 4
Mark 12:28-34
“On the 10th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...Ten Lords A-leaping”
An important part of our history is found in what we call “The Ten commandments”:
1) You shall have no other gods before me;
2) Do not make an idol;
3) Do not take God's name in vain;
4) Remember the Sabbath Day;
5) Honor your father and mother;
6) Do not murder;
7) Do not commit adultery;
8) Do not steal;
9) Do not bear false witness;
10) Do not covet. (Exodus 20:1-17).
These ten laws set forth a way of living together within community that protects not only the individual but the community as well. They have stood the test of time, in fact a code much like this can be found in almost every ancient culture. Observance of these commands provides strength and stability. It is important, however, to remember that the foundation of our faith is not found in this law but in the law written on our hearts through the Holy Spirit and our relationship with Jesus Christ.
Over the past couple of years, within our community there has arisen controversy over the Ten Commandments. This was prompted by the removal of the Ten Commandments Monument from a public park. During all of the controversy over whether we ought to move them or ought not to move them not once did I hear anyone say that these are an important part of our history but they are not objects to be worshipped. Christ through the Holy Spirit is the perfecter of our faith not the enforcer of a list of rules. Jesus told his disciples that the entire law is summed up in relationship: relationship with God and relationships with other people.
The picture of ten lords a-leaping inspires me to realize that our Christian walk is not static adherence to a code of laws, but is relational. Through the indwelling Holy Spirit we discern what is right as we seek to live lives that evidence the fruit of the Spirit. I am grateful for the guidance of these ancient laws and determine to live my life using them as a guide, but the primary guide in my life is found in my relationship with the Great King and is lived and monitored within a community of others who are seeking the face of God for their daily lives.
Action Point: What are the principles and guidelines that govern your relationships, thoughts, and life? How do these commands inspire you? How does God through his spirit guide you?
Mark 12:28-34
“On the 10th day of Christmas my true love gave to me...Ten Lords A-leaping”
An important part of our history is found in what we call “The Ten commandments”:
1) You shall have no other gods before me;
2) Do not make an idol;
3) Do not take God's name in vain;
4) Remember the Sabbath Day;
5) Honor your father and mother;
6) Do not murder;
7) Do not commit adultery;
8) Do not steal;
9) Do not bear false witness;
10) Do not covet. (Exodus 20:1-17).
These ten laws set forth a way of living together within community that protects not only the individual but the community as well. They have stood the test of time, in fact a code much like this can be found in almost every ancient culture. Observance of these commands provides strength and stability. It is important, however, to remember that the foundation of our faith is not found in this law but in the law written on our hearts through the Holy Spirit and our relationship with Jesus Christ.
Over the past couple of years, within our community there has arisen controversy over the Ten Commandments. This was prompted by the removal of the Ten Commandments Monument from a public park. During all of the controversy over whether we ought to move them or ought not to move them not once did I hear anyone say that these are an important part of our history but they are not objects to be worshipped. Christ through the Holy Spirit is the perfecter of our faith not the enforcer of a list of rules. Jesus told his disciples that the entire law is summed up in relationship: relationship with God and relationships with other people.
The picture of ten lords a-leaping inspires me to realize that our Christian walk is not static adherence to a code of laws, but is relational. Through the indwelling Holy Spirit we discern what is right as we seek to live lives that evidence the fruit of the Spirit. I am grateful for the guidance of these ancient laws and determine to live my life using them as a guide, but the primary guide in my life is found in my relationship with the Great King and is lived and monitored within a community of others who are seeking the face of God for their daily lives.
Action Point: What are the principles and guidelines that govern your relationships, thoughts, and life? How do these commands inspire you? How does God through his spirit guide you?