The Ten Commandments

This meditation is based on a passage for April 22, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Exodus 20:1-21

Reflection and Question: In Jewish tradition, the Ten Commandments are the essential tenets of faith. They are the heart of the covenant between God and Israel. So it makes sense that Jesus summarized the Law as loving God and neighbor because that is, indeed, what the Ten Commandments boil down to. The first four commandments are concrete actions to love God, while the last six are basic ways to love one’s neighbors. Christian theologians have expanded widely the meanings of these commandments, but we do best when we simply try to follow their first meanings. Which commandment is most challenging for you?

Prayer: Most loving God, through Your servant, Moses, we received these rules for living in love with You according to Your will. Forgive us when we fail in our effort to obey and show us again the way to fulfill the Covenant with You this very day. Amen.