Dear St. Paul’s Friends & Family,
The Ten Commandments are one of the great images of the Judeo-Christian religious tradition that has gained iconic status in popular culture. Often portrayed on two sets of stone tablets, many of us often think of them as a series of “thou shalt not” statements that act as guiderails to living a faithful life. Go ahead and take a moment to read the scripture included in this mailing that lists the Ten Commandments.
I’ve often heard the Commandments interpreted in a negative sense, meaning, don’t do this, don’t do that. While such “thou shalt not” refrains are helpful regarding judging right from wrong behavior, there’s far more to the Ten Commandments than just being God’s rule book. Following the Ten Commandments is more of a lifestyle choice than anything else. Do you want a life where you are good with God and your neighbor? Do you want a life where honor and faith are key? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then the Ten Commandments open up many affirming opportunities in your life than prohibitions. In other words, refraining from worshiping other people and priorities (a.k.a. gods) opens rich possibilities with the one true God. Similarly, preserving your neighbor’s life, not to mention their possessions, not only lends to being neighborly, but also a series of relationships that will support and sustain your life.
Jesus, when asked about the most important of these commandments summed them up in one word: love. Total love of God, neighbor, and self (my paraphrase of Luke 10:27). In other words, adhering to the Ten Commandments is much more about loving than abstaining from certain behaviors. Loving opens up infinite possibilities when it comes to relating to God and others, not to mention ourselves. Love means that we will take time to learn about God, engaging in worship and prayer; love means that we will seek to help our neighbor, looking out for their well-being and even giving of ourselves so that they can have a better life; and love certainly means that we will follow Jesus in our actions. The Ten Commandments are points that lead us to the same conclusion as Christ’s commandment to love: wholeness and abundant life for ourselves, our neighbors, our community, and our world.
May you sense the Holy Spirit’s presence in your life, leading you in loving and restorative relationships. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if I can be of help. My cell number is: 814-279-5504.
Blessings,Pastor Matt
March 5, 2021
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