Friday, July 03, 2009

This Week's WORD

Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the LORD your God redeemed you from there. That is why I command you to do this...Remember that you were slaves in Egypt. That is why I command you to do this.
Deuteronomy 24:18 & 22

These statements both come at the end of Moses' repeated commands to look after the welfare of the alien, the fatherless, and the widow. Maybe it was the explicit instructions, it could have been the repetition, but whatever the reason - I just couldn't get past these verses without giving them more thought.
Perhaps the Israelites looked down upon the alien, the fatherless and the widow. Maybe they thought those unfortunate individuals should simply buck up and figure out a way to take care of themselves. I suppose the Israelites may have considered it enough to have to meet their own needs, so why bother with anyone else?

But Moses told them, "Remember that you were slaves in Egypt."

My paraphrase/amplification: Look, brothers, I remember just as well as you how much you cried and complained when you were in Egypt. "This work is too hard. These Egyptians are mean to us! We can't handle it any longer. Somebody, help us!"
You were alone in the land and without hope.
Does that sound like anyone you know today?
But the LORD your God, He heard your cry. He had mercy on you and with His mighty arm and great acts of judgement. He led you out of that land of slavery. He had mercy on you and cared for you. Do you remember?
Do you???
My brothers, remember from where it is you have come. Remember the mercy and grace which was so freely given to you. Remember!
And with that memory, take care of these who are alone in this land and without hope.


So today I am asking God to help me remember from where it is I have come. I am asking Him to help me remember the mercy and grace He has so generously bestowed upon me. And I am asking Him to use that memory to help me be the best mom I can be today. Will you join me?

May the joy of the LORD fill your soul this weekend. Hope you enjoy some great fireworks!
See you back here Monday!

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6 comments:

luvmy4sons said...

Oh how quickly we forget...may we not forget all His benefits! Amen to this post! Me too sister...me too!

Jessica Nelson said...

Great word! I think that's a good lesson for us too, to not judge others because we've been in sticky places too.

Amanda said...

So much to learn!! lol Thank goodness your willing to be patient with me!

God bless-
Amanda

Kelly said...

One of the things I know about myself is I lack compassion, and the person I am hardest on is...myself. So I need to remember this too, so I can have compassion on me, and then extend it to others. Thanks.

Praise and Coffee said...

Wonerful post Karen, it is so easy to forget and start whining again!

Hope you have a great weekend.
Love.
Sue

LisaShaw said...

Thanks for sharing with us Karen.

Making rounds to share this special 4th of July with my blogging friends. Praise the LORD for our FREEDOM. Blessings to you and your family dear one.