Leviticus 22-24

 Leviticus 22-24 

We handle with care the Holy things that we give to God. As we become more cultural informal, we are conscious of not becoming casual with the Sacred. These restrictions detail specific conditions important to an ancient faith community. We interpret them to identify appropriate expressions of our attitude toward God; attitudes preceding actions. We read instructions particular to priests, realizing that the mind-set of each Christian is important in her, or his, Worship of God. Purity of heart and mind toward God brings our best to Worship.

Observing weekly Sabbaths, and annual sacred times, keeps us in a faithful rhythm of consciously living  our relationship with God. Our life choices may present what we excuse as schedule challenges at the expense of honoring God. The convenience of opportunities available 24/7 distract us from consistently giving our first attention and efforts to Worship. Our shared expressions of faithfulness, primarily in and through Worship, is vital to our soul-care. That is why Worship is the central act of the Church.

Punishment for offenses is less radical now than it was then. Jesus’ teaching, 

You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. But I say to you that you must not oppose those who want to hurt you. If people slap you on your right cheek, you must turn the left cheek to them as well. When they wish to haul you to court and take your shirt, let them have your coat too. When they force you to go one mile, go with them two. Give to those who ask, and don’t refuse those who wish to borrow from you. (Matthew 5:38-42, CEB)

recasts retributive justice in a startling way. The love that Jesus taught and lived stretches and reforms our innate inclination toward revenge.

Questions:

• In what ways do keep worshiping God a central expression of your faith?
• In what ways are living like Jesus to reframe systems of justice?