We say the Old Testament Law has been fulfilled by Christ in these New Testament times. And this is true. But all too lightly we dismiss the riches – and the challenges – that still remain for us from the OT.
Let me go right to testimony. No matter how deeply I know the Bible, often when the moment arises, I do not have an appropriate word from the Word for the occasion.
It is a real craft to weave words from the Word into the fabric of life. Like any craft, it takes repeated practice to do well.
How many times have I said grace before meals at the family table? How many of those times was a word from the Word woven into those prayers? – as compared with: “Ah, well, thank you for this food … please bless the cat who is sick … you are good and great and gracious … amen.” This is a caricature of prayer; and it probably doesn’t t bless the angels who are watching, never mind Anyone Else of higher rank.
Moses said: “… put the words of God in your heart and soul … bind them on your hands … fix them on your forehead … talk about them when you are at home with your children, talk about them when you are away … and recite them upon retiring and awaking … write them on the doorposts of your house.”
The people of Israel were to weave the words of God into the fabric of their lives. And in return their days and their children’s days would be multiplied, and they will live in the land God swore to their ancestors to give them.
No clever theology can explain away how this Old Testament command is no longer in force. Because it still is. His words are life; our words are at best rough drafts of something else.
Logos2Go:
Deuteronomy 11:18-21 You shall put these words of mine in your heart and soul, and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and fix them as an emblem on your forehead. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you are at home and when you are away, when you lie down and when you rise. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates, so that your days and the days of your children may be multiplied in the land that the LORD swore to your ancestors to give them, as long as the heavens are above the earth.
1 Peter 1.12 ... Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.Colossians 3.16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly …
1 comments:
So true Dave. I am reminded of a quote by E.M. Bounds that I like "The word of God is the food by which prayer is nourished and made strong."
Lately I have really been seeking after an honest and natural connection between the day to day stuff of my life, prayer, and the Word. A vibrant flow back and forth between all three. To be completely honest, something that isn't so forced or manufactured. I think it probably only happens over time and perhaps this is happening in my life, but sometimes it still seams so forced.
I like the way you put it: "It is a real craft to weave words from the Word into the fabric of life. Like any craft, it takes repeated practice to do well."
Really enjoying reading your blog Dave.
brad
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