A common theme that I find in this week’s readings pertains to our conduct – how it is different from others, how it is unique, how it is driven by God’s ordinances and edicts, and how we are to pursue interaction with others.

In our first section from Leviticus, we are clearly directed that we are to walk in the statutes of God, and not in the statutes of those around us or in other lands.  In the second section of Leviticus, clear directives are provided as to how we treat the poor and the sojourner, our hired workers, the deaf and the blind, and our neighbor.  We are instructed to deal with people in an impartial manner.

In Luke, we find the parable of the Good Samaritan.  When Jesus was asked about who his neighbor was, he gave a poignant story about the robbed and injured man who was not helped by any of the self-acclaimed spiritual persons.  Instead, a Samaritan who happened to be going by took pity on him and helped him. 

In Colossians, we read Paul’s words of admonition and praise to the saints in the church, having heard about their faithfulness to Jesus and their love for the saints.  He notes how they are working in a manner worthy of the Lord, and their work is bearing fruit as they are acting with all endurance and patience, being strengthened with all power of God’s glorious might. 

Finally, from our passage in the Psalms, I gather a very personal treatise by the psalmist about the practical challenges and victories of our daily walk with God.  He speaks of his own sin, the mockery of others, his trust in the Lord for graciousness and forgiveness, and ultimately the victory that is found in the Lord, who provides the strength to walk in integrity.  The psalmist concludes, as should we in our lives, “Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting!  Amen and Amen”. EE