Do Not Think I Have Come to Abolish the Law

This meditation is based on a passage for September 5, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Matthew 5:13-20

Reflection and Question: I am grateful to JohnBoy and Donna for their thoughtful comments on this passage in which they very effectively address the paradox these verses pose for those of us who seem to be breaking rules in Scripture. When any Christian eats shellfish or prepares them for guests, that believer breaks a rule in Scripture and teaches others to do the same. When we come before the Judgment Seat we will all have to answer to how we understood Jesus here. Do you agree with JohnBoy? With Donna? Why or why not?

Prayer: Holy Jesus, Your word is clear: not one stroke of a letter will pass from the law until all is accomplished. You came to fulfill the law and the prophets. Guide us toward righteousness this day and stand by us when we answer for what we do. Amen.