Monday, February 23, 2026

 

Leviticus 19:2-3, 11-18; Ps 19:7-14; Matthew 25:31-46

The Refreshing Law
 
Some people say Leviticus is one of the most boring books in the Bible as it is all about rules. I have found later in life, for it to be one of the most refreshing.

Why would a “rule book” be refreshing? In the same way Psalm 19: 7-14 says the Law is perfect, trustworthy, right, radiant, pure, precious and sweet. Furthermore, because it is these things it is also “refreshing to the soul,” “making wise the simple,” “joy to the heart,” and “light to the eyes”.

How so? In the same way an accurate ruler is right or perfect or trustworthy in measuring something. In the same way it feels good (radiant), precious or sweet to know and to be walking in the right way and free, blameless and innocent. That is a weight off!

Also, because it makes sin clear. It’s like a spiritual housecleaning list for one’s relationship with God and others. Did I respect my parents, keep the God’s sabbath, love my neighbour? Check. As the Psalm says, “By them your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.” In the hazy spiritual battleground of the mind, world or devil, it is the standard that the army can rally around. It is the clear marching orders direct from central command.

Ironically, I also find the stark “black and white” letter of the law also implies the spirit of the law. And in it is certainly the spirit of relationships with God, others and oneself. The positive commands, "Be holy as I am,” “respect,” “observe sabbaths,” “love” all connote these relationships; as the negative “do not”s imply how to “love your neighbour”.  

I found the Parable of the Sheep and Goats by Jesus, just reinforces this - the spiritual lives (and consequences) were weighed in how people loved others (or what they did or did not do to them). In the same way the Law and the parable shows us what to do and not do, Jesus did. As our example, He (didn’t come to abolish it but) fulfilled the Law. Then sent the Holy Spirit, to write the law on our hearts.

As much as we don’t earn our salvation through works or the Law, but faith alone, we need it, to see that we need Jesus and God to help us. For it’s wisdom, light, clarity and standard. To see our right way, our housecleaning checklist, the letter that implies the spirit, our Holy God, our example and our saviour.
 
Jonathan Legg 
 
 
 
Psalm 19  Jess Ray 

 

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