When you're on your way on a great journey it's imperative that you plan ahead and pack well. This often means a long list, a road map, GPS, snacks and drinks (you have to eat), and of course appropriate clothing.
When my kids were young and we went on vacation it seemed like there was always some little thing that I would forget like a camera, or a check book, sun screen, swimming suite (Mine once) , Sun glasses, alarm clock or any number of camping supplies. Once we left some medications and not too long ago I went on vacation without enough pills in the prescription. Oh and lets not talk about the things that we have lost on a vacation! (Rental car keys......cell phone....) That might come up in a future blog!
Now in most cases I was able to either live without what I forgot or buy a replacement but there are things that we really can't replace and it's imperative that we bring them along.
Our text for this week speaks of those things that we cannot leave behind!
Moses and the Children of Israel were awaiting entry into the promised land. The Book of Deuteronomy is all about what the Lord instructs them to bring with them into the land and how they are to live in this new land.
First and foremost they had to bring God with them and they had to fix their love and attention on God above all things. Our passage for today contains what is known as the Jewish Schema. It was repeated regularly by every good Jewish person down through the ages. The first sentence of the Schema says, "Here O Israel: The Lord our god, the Lord is one." The first paragraph of the Schema deals with the acceptance of Divine rule. This section consists of an affirmation of belief in God's unity and in His sovereignty over the world, the unconditional love of God, and a commitment to the study of His teachings.
God knew that there would always be a temptation for the people to follow after other gods and after ungodly ways of living. If you were to look at the history of Israel throughout the Bible this tension is evident every step of the way... many times with disastrous consequences.
This week lets look at the journey; both Israel's journey and our own. In addition. Let's remember that in the journey of life it's not good enough that we make it. Remember we have a responsibility to teach our children and help them to have the best chance of success which comes from writing the Word of God deep in our hearts.
So let's get our lists out and start packing for the future. (Now where is my Son glasses?...... and my Bible!)
Thought to ponder: How am I passing on my faith to my children? When is the last time I've talked with my kids about what I believe?
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