Building Renewal 

Today’s author is Prince of Peace member Debbie Jorgens.

Exodus 20:1-17

When I was young – probably 7 or 8 years old – I got into an argument with my mother. This was a rare occurrence because first, my mother had the patience of a saint, and second, I was a pretty good kid, generally speaking. Not perfect, by any means, but usually compliant. (Note: Before writing this devotion, I checked with my three older sisters and they confirmed this fact!)

As I remember, I wanted to go to a friend’s house and for some reason, which has escaped me after all these years, was told I couldn’t go. I begged, and pleaded, and argued with my Mom until it became evident I had gone too far. She sent me to my room until I could calm down and behave respectfully.

I ran upstairs, threw myself on my bed, and cried. When one of my sisters asked what was wrong, I conveyed the whole story to her and then asked, “Why is Mom being so mean to me?!”

“She’s not being mean, Debbie. Mom and Dad have rules because they love us!” That was one of the most ridiculous things I had ever heard in my life! But of course, I eventually came to understand that my sister was right, even if I didn’t always appreciate having to abide by the rules.

Exodus 19 tells the story of the Israelites arriving at Mount Sinai after their harrowing escape from the Egyptians only weeks earlier. Having been freed from the oppression they suffered under Pharaoh, they now enter into a new covenant with God. The Israelites agree to obey God and keep the covenant, and in turn they become God’s treasured people, a priestly kingdom, and a holy nation.

On the heels of this new covenant come the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17), the gift of a loving God to God’s treasured people. The term, “Ten Commandments,” is actually not found anywhere in the Old Testament. Note verse 1: “Then God spoke all these words.…”

These words are certainly commands, but they’re also words of wisdom, words of life, meant to shape the people into a community that reflects God’s own character. Like a loving parent who cares deeply for her/his children and wants only the best for them, God provides the commandments as a way to help God’s people flourish.  

Loving God: Thank you for making us your treasured people and for the gift of your commandments. Help us, and guide us, so that our words and actions will be a reflection of your love for all the world. In Jesus Name, Amen.