Devotion:
Read Leviticus 19:9-10; 23:22.
After God brought the Children of Israel out of their multi-generational bondage in Egypt, they needed guidance on how to organize themselves. God provided them detailed instructions on how to relate to each other in day to day activities and circumstances. There were also provisions for the poor and the immigrants among them. His people were to be cognizant of the needs of those around them, especially those most vulnerable. Two times here in Leviticus that is emphasized with these commands to leave some of their harvest in the fields for those who had no land or other means to support themselves.
Caring for the needs of others is part of what it means to be the people of God. It is a fundamental, core value of who we are as God’s people. It goes to the very heart of who God is. Many times in the Old Testament, particularly in the books of the prophets, we read of God being upset with the people for not caring for and doing right by those most in need among them. Jesus continued that prophetic emphasis throughout his ministry by focusing on the least, the last and the lost. In order to represent this God, we can do no less.
Personal Worship Option:
What are the ways you have intentionally cared for the poor and most vulnerable in the last month? How might you do so this next week?
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