The sermon topic for tomorrow is, “You shall not steal,” word of command and warning from God's Decalogue. At the basis of this commandment is the knowledge that all belongs to God. God gives to us that we might live in this world, work, eat, and provide for others. To steal from someone is to deprive them of their livelihood. It is say, “My needs are more important than yours.” Most interesting to me is a subsequent law of the settled nation of Israel; “If you come across your enemy’s ox or donkey wandering off, be sure to return it. If you see the donkey of someone who hates you fallen down under its load, do not leave it there; be sure you help your enemy with it” (Ex 23:4,5, NIV). Can such selfless, humble acts change the world in which “what’s mine is mine and what’s yours is mine?” Can it undercut the “I’m special,” self-centered mentality we have drubbed into our children’s minds and replace it with a servant’s heart?
As it is said: We don't make peace with our friends--we make peace with our enemies.
The gospel is truly tough love.
As it is said: We don't make peace with our friends--we make peace with our enemies.
The gospel is truly tough love.