Scripture
Also thou shalt not oppress a stranger: for ye know the heart of a stranger, seeing ye were strangers in the land of Egypt. Exodus 23:9
Observation
The Exodus experience is one of grace, not of works. Hence the requirement to obey God comes out of this experience of grace. Israel had no idea how to live as a community. All they had ever experienced living in Egypt was oppression and now God laid down the ground-rules of how to live in this new community of grace.
As Israel lived according to these laws (yes, there are still laws when living under grace) they would certainly be noticed by others. God said they were to be to be His special people, “kingdom of priests and a holy nation”.
Application
God has also delivered me out of the bondage of sin into an experience of grace. While some would say this new freedom means we are not subject to God’s laws and commands, it is quite the opposite.
God have invited me to be part of a new nation…a holy nation. As part of this new community, I have a responsibility to reflect His grace to others. When I forget His grace toward me, it is easy to be graceless to my neighbor.
Prayer
Lord, thank you for your great deliverance from the bondage of sin. Please help me to remember that the only way to stay free is to live within your will for my life.
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