If You Follow My Statutes and If You Do Not

This meditation is based on a passage for May 11, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Leviticus 26:1-20

Reflection and Question: This passage outlines God’s covenant with Israel. “If you keep my commandments, I will look with favor upon you; if you do not obey Me, I will bring terror on you.” Much of the Old Testament tells how God’s people continuously sinned and incurred God’s punishment. After hints in the prophets, God comes in Jesus with loving kindness that will remain steadfast, regardless of our activity, even to the point of crucifying Jesus on the cross. There are no more “ifs.” There is only God’s unfailing love. How do you understand the new covenant God establishes through Jesus?

Prayer: Most Loving God, Your promise is clear that You will bless us richly if we obey your commandments, and yet we fail You over and over again. Thanks for Your merciful redemption in Jesus through whom we rise to try to do Your Will again. Amen.