From Rev. Eric…

March 13, 2024

Each week I have pulled some interesting – and challenging – commandments from our Lenten Station commandment table. I found it deeply ironic that on the first Sunday of Lent I pulled “Not to do prohibited work on the seventh day.” (Exodus 20:10) After all, I “work” on Sundays. The challenge for me, then, was to not work on my day off, Friday. The following week I drew “Not to curse judges.” (Exodus 22:27) I spent the week thinking about how I “judge” those who “judge.” On week three I pulled “Not to embarrass others.” (Leviticus 19:17) The Jewish Talmud equates embarrassment of another with murder. When I first learned of this interpretation many years ago, I immediately began tempering my own thoughts and remarks that could possibly embarrass others. I am grateful for this spiritual awareness. And finally, this past Sunday I picked up “Not to possess inaccurate weights and scales even if they are not for use.” (Deuteronomy 25:13) I am interpreting this commandment as another admonishment to me to be aware of times where I judge others and situations. Am I judging correctly? What are my assumptions? How am I “weighing” my judgments?

I hope your selection of commandments out of the traditional 613 commandments has been fruitful and challenging.

Also, I am rejoicing in the stories of how you have shared the Covenantal Reverse Offering. Thank you for looking for God in the other and for looking with God’s eyes!

Rev. Eric