Exodus 20 contains the giving of one of the most important lists in the Bible – the Ten Commandments. Moses was up on the mountain and God gave him a very specific set of guidelines that the people, who had just pledged their obedience, were to follow. For the sake of memory here is how the Message version talks about them:
1. “No other gods
2. No using the name of Gad in curses or silly banter
3. Ovserve the Sabbath
4. Honor your father and mother
5. No murder
6. No adultery
7. No stealing
8. No lies
9. No lusting
10. No gods of silver and gold”
Some might argue that this list is no longer relevant as we are no longer under the law. Not sure that argument holds up in light of scripture. We are covered by grace, but God’s laws are not null and void. They still show us just how much we need a Savior. They show us the difference between right and wrong. They set God’s standards for obedience. Most of all they show us how we all fall short of God’s perfection and drive us to need forgiveness and salvation.
The area of this chapter that troubles me is in these words: “punishing the children for any sins their parents pass on to them to the third, and yes, even to the fourth generation”. How we live matters. I don’t claim to understand what the impact is of a parent, grandparent, great grandparent and great great grandparent is on their kids and grandkids, but it obviously makes a difference in God’s plan. This is sobering truth to consider as we make choices each day in how we will obey. The flip side is that the impact for generations goes both ways and that is what we need to focus on. God says “but I’m unswervingly loyal to ……those…..who love me and keep my commandments”. God wants a relationship. He wants our obedience. That choice matters not just for you and me today, but for generations to come. Ponder that as you determine how you spend your 168 hours this week! Choices matter – today and for the future!
