Belonging to God and Each OtherSample

Belonging Because...

Read Exodus 22:21 - 22:27

Think. Chapters 21–23 of Exodus are part of the Old Testament laws that note the terms of the relationship between God and Israel. These rules are known as the Covenant Code. God initiates a steadfast commitment to Israel. God’s action binds Israel in a relationship; the people of Israel belong to God. The people do their best to understand how God wants them to live in order to express their belonging to God. The covenant involves Israel’s worship, their collective moral codes, and their public and personal standards for living.

Specific instructions are recorded about caring for those who are without power: resident aliens, widows, and orphans. Israel was not to oppress or wrong resident aliens. The Israelites are to remember the time when they were exploited and powerless as slaves in Egypt.

The commands include how God’s people are to protect widows, orphans, and the poor—people who are vulnerable to exploitation.

To show one’s belonging to God requires compassionate living as God extended compassion to Israel. Allegiance to Israel’s God and living compassionately and justly go hand in hand.

• Whom do you need to welcome or extend compassion to as God has loved and accepted you?
• Who are the vulnerable in your community that require welcoming hands of care and support?  

Pray. Holy God, make me an ambassador of your justice and compassion. Amen.

Act. Make a list of individuals and groups you know who are vulnerable to oppression and unjust treatment. Take one action today that will protect, welcome, and show care for one of these, God’s beloved.