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- What attributes of God’s character does this passage reveal?
- How does the passage point to Jesus?
- How should the truth of this passage change me?
- How do the events of today’s reading help you better understand the grand narrative of Scripture?
Deut. 25
In a short segment at the end of this chapter, Moses told the Israelites, “Remember what the Amalekites did to you…” (Deut. 25:17a). At the end of this short segment he said, “blot out the memory of Amalek under heaven. Do not forget.” (Deut. 25:19b). At first glance, that sounds a little vengeful. I think it is important, though, to pay attention to what’s in-between. Smack in the middle of this segment Moses said, “They did not fear God.” (Deut. 25. 18b). That’s where I believe Moses directed his “Do not forget” statement. What the Amalekites did wasn’t the point. Their actions were merely evidence of the greater issue. Thus, the admonition was to not forget that the Amalekites did not fear God. And the command to blot out their memory was not an act of vengeance for Israel but, rather, an act of justice from God through His people.
Deut. 26-27
Part of the statement the Israelites were to make in the year of the tenth, when they gave their firstfruits to the Levites and the needy of the land, was, “I have not eaten any of it while in mourning” (Deut. 26:14a). That caught my attention. Then I noticed that, in Deuteronomy 26:11, the people were to rejoice when they brought their firstfruits to God. They were also told to rejoice with their fellowship offerings (see Deut. 27:7). This is a reminder to me that God’s presence in our lives and the good things He gives us should bring us joy. Sure, there are times when mourning is appropriate. But our expressions of gratitude should be whole-hearted, sincere, and rooted in joy.