Today’s Reading, Deuteronomy 21-23
Focal Scripture: Deuteronomy 22:1 ““If you see your brother Israelite’s ox or sheep straying, do not ignore it; make sure you return it to your brother.”
Several years ago I was debating what I wanted to do for a vocation besides ministry. The only two jobs that I could think of that I wanted to commit my life to besides pastoring, was education or nursing. These jobs were odd for me to pick because I sometimes struggle with feelings and emotions. However, I do deeply care about others and want to take care of them in a way that is meaningful. I remember talking to nurses and EMT ‘s as I navigated a pretty big decision. It didn’t take long for me to realize that my service to others would best happen in the school setting as a person who focuses on students with disabilities. This allowed me to minister to students constantly. Hopefully I have impacted the life of many young people.
In today’s reading we see the call upon Moses life to serve others. This was to be done by making sure if he saw his brother’s ox or sheep straying that he would bring it back to him. That he would not ignore it and treat it with love and respect. Why does this matter? Because the Lord wanted other nations to see that his followers took morality serious. They needed to understand that how you take care of others is a direct reflection of your walk with the Lord.
So how do you treat others? Are you a person who only treats others well if it is advantageous for you personally? Or do you go out of your way and treat others with respect even when they don’t deserve it because of what they have done. You see anyone can treat people with respect when they treat you well. It is difficult to treat others with respect who don’t deserve it because of their actions and attitudes.
I once had a supervisor who behaved in a horrible manner. They treated most people behind closed doors terribly. They had a demeaning attitude, talked horribly about others, and even had a foul mouth in meetings. More than once this person was called out about their behavior. Instead of correcting it, he adapted when and how he spoke. One day he asked me why I didn’t say much to him when he spoke. I told him it was because I didn’t trust him or respect him at all. The only way I could honor his leadership was by not speaking to him in an unworthy manner. I have yet to speak ill of this person publicly because it would be disrespectful and not taking care of people to do so.
I give this example not to pat myself on the back but to show you how you can take care of others even when it is difficult. So how do you treat others that you don’t care for or that you believe doesn’t deserve respect. Our actions will reveal our heart and how care about others. Remember, our goal is to show the love of Christ to everyone at all times. Our life should point people to Jesus and how we care for them is our first testament to how God changed our lives.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Deuteronomy 24-27
