SCRIPTURE: Leviticus 24
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
After reminding Aaron to keep the symbols of Lord’s presence (the candle) and provision (the bread), the people discover the importance of RESPECT. The Lord uses this occasion where someone intentionally, brazenly curses Him before all the people, to teach them about respect. Not only for Him, for but for all people, for life, for everything.
Respect for the Lord ought to be obvious. If we really knew God, what God was like, and our place before God, we would quickly humble ourselves before Him. But sinful pride blinds us to God, and we foolishly deny or diminish Him. The repeated message of the Bible is: honour God, fear God, worship God, reverence God, respect God! Implied in this message is its counterpart – or else!
But respect is due to everyone and everything, not just to God. The purpose of the “eye for eye” principle was not to set up a system of barter or exchange, but to impress on the people the need for respect. God did not want people gouging out each others eyes, He wanted them to not do it! Respect people, do not harm them. Respect other’s property! And again, this message includes its counterpart – or else!
This is why Jesus corrects the “eye for eye” idea in Matthew 5 – You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. [Matthew 5:38-42]
Its not that justice ought to be denied, but that we should not turn this into a justification for revenge but rather an opportunity for grace. The goal of the command is love, or respect. Treat people with love, honour, respect. And when they wrong you, use that as an opportunity to bless them.
This does not rule out the serious consequence of disrespect, for God or for others. Those who continue to disrespect God or others will pay the price, unless they repent! The Lord uses this occasion to teach people this important lesson. Show respect… or else!
PRAYER:
Lord, respect for You and others goes beyond demanding justice, it calls us to show compassion. Teach me the true meaning of respect.
Two things came to mind. Jesus Christ is the Light of the world and also the bread of Life. To be without Christ is to be dead – no light, no bread.
The blasphemer was stoned and it didn’t matter whether he was an Israelite or a stranger living in the land. This reminded me of the importance to witness to those around me using the name of the Lord in vain. I need to stand uo for Christ at all times and say That’s not right. Bite your tongue. Only use God’s name in reverence and awe. And the misuse of His name will not mean an immediate consequence this day, but it does mean the price will be paid in the future – death unless one repents. Help me Lord to show respect, honor, love, mercy to my neighbor, but above all to You.
Honor and glory, power and salvation
Be in the highest unto Him Who reigneth,
Changeless in Heaven, over earthly changes,
God the eternal.
Bow down before Him, people and nations,
See ye His glory, clearly now appearing,
Come ye and worship Him, God in the highest,
Ruler forever.