February 5, 2024 - Leviticus 26-27

Over and over again, in his Word, God says to Israel and to us, “You shall not make idols for yourselves or erect an image or pillar, and you shall not set up a figured stone in your land to bow down to it, for I am the Lord your God” (26:1).  In this morning’s reading, God warns the people about the consequences of idolatry and disobedience to him (disease, defeat by enemies, famine, and so much more) and the blessings for obedience (abundant crops, peace, victory over enemies, the presence of the Lord).

Truths we need to rehearse often:  We are not saved by our obedience but by the obedience of another.  Yet, we are to live lives of obedience; in fact, obedience to God’s will is a clear sign that we are of God.  Jesus himself said, “If you love me, you will obey what I command” (John 14:15).  And, then, there is this:  God has not given us his commands in order to weigh us down with heavy burdens; that was the manner of the Pharisees.  Rather, Jesus says to us, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:29-30).  There’s a clear principle, here, as we begin our day:  We are wise to follow the ways of the Lord rather than the ways of the world.  The latter brings death; the former gives life abundant and eternal.

I heard the voice of Jesus say,

“Come unto Me and rest;

lay down, thou weary one, lay down

thy head upon My breast.”

I came to Jesus as I was,

so weary, worn, and sad;

I found in Him a resting place,

and He has made me glad.   -- Horatius Bonar (1846)