“Since you are the people of the Lord your God…
You have been set apart as holy to the Lord your God, and he has chosen you
from all the nations of the earth to be his own special treasure.”
Deuteronomy 14:1-2
Moses had been pleading with the Israelites to be careful to obey God’s rules. But, before reviewing specific rules, Moses made sure they knew the reason for being careful…You are GOD’s people…you are set apart to be holy…you are chosen…you are HIS special treasure! Rules are important to God because relationship is important to God!
Instead of boring ourselves with those lists of rules, let’s realize that the details of rules are not as important to understand as the relationship that results. When people are set apart as holy, they must keep their bodies holy…thus, the rules about forbidden foods and cleanliness. Their offerings, community worship, and celebrations also had rules…but the purpose of them all was relationship with a holy God who loved them.
Right relationship with God also necessitated right relationships with those HE created, His other kids. So, rules about sharing freely with the poor and treating people with kindness, justice, and mercy were all about relationship with God’s other treasures!
No wonder we hear Moses’ be careful to obey plea all through Deuteronomy! God wants relationship with us, HIS special treasures!
Being careful to obey God’s rules is for my own good…
relationship with a God who loves ME!
So, I plan to enjoy every minute of this “be careful” life!
