Exodus 19:4 ‘You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. 5 Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, 6 you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.”
This past Sunday our youth discussion focused on a number of topics regarding the Ten Commandments. But, we also honed in on the verses above, that come before the Ten Commandments portion of scripture.
These verses felt puzzling. Are they stating that God plays favorites? It would seem so, and scripture can be found in numerous parts of the Bible regarding Israel’s special relationship to God.
My own take on this is that while a unique and loving relationship existed between the nation of Israel and God, other scriptures in both Old and New Testaments clearly express the love of God for all! But with that said … if we are all loved equally, why do some suffer so much more than others? Life can be downright cruel that way. Why is suffering meted out so disproportionately? Why does God allow this to happen if we are all loved equally?
Bluntly put, I don’t know. But what I do believe is that where there is hardship, grace abounds, and that those who are able are called to be carriers of that grace, in all of its compassionate forms. To whom much is given, much is expected. When we take on the suffering of others, we hurt too. But a burden shared cultivates peace and love, fulfilling the commandment to love our neighbor as ourselves.
Dear Lord, may we stand in the gap to lift up those who suffer. Open our eyes to our surroundings and give us compassionate hearts.
Autumn blessings to all,
Diana
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