Top X June 28, 2025 Devotional
June 28, 2025
DEUTERONOMY 5:14 | 14 But the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God; you shall not do any work—you, or your son or your daughter, or your male or female slave, or your ox or your donkey, or any of your livestock, or the resident alien in your towns, so that your male and female slave may rest as well as you.
Hidden in this verse is a social revolution. Holiness and Sabbath rest is not an instruction and a privilege for Israel alone. It is for everyone. Though Israel is distinct and unique, God also loves and cares for the alien and stranger and for the animals. The people of Israel were once slaves who could never rest, for they were treated as means of production and not ends in themselves. They must never mistreat others in this way, but rather extend their blessing towards others, even the humble creatures that serve them—the livestock, donkeys, and oxen. This implies a special purpose for the Commandments, they are meant to help us become more like God, sharing His compassion for others and His love for the creation.
Thank someone for their work on your behalf today.
Gracious God,
Help me to feel connected to others and to resist every form of arrogance and superiority. I want to share Your compassion.
Amen.
