Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Jesse Tree: 2nd Wednesday- God and the Torah at Mt. Sinai

2nd Wednesday of Advent
God and the Torah at Mount Sinai


Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie
Today's Jesse Tree symbol is that of the Ten Commandments. Today we reflect on the cementing of the covenant between God and his chosen people through the handing down of the law to Moses.

God tells Moses that the Israelites are His chosen, and a priestly people. He says that He will hold us dear, but we in turn must follow these commandments. When Jesus was asked which of these ten commandments was the most important, instead of choosing one he said, "The first is this: 'Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone!

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these." (Mark 12:29-31) This did not overrule or abolish the ten commandments, but rather encapsulated all ten into two universal and clear commandments. These two incorporate all of the original commandments. 

Today, think of outward ways to show your love of God and neighbor. What visible, tangible thing can you do today to show your preparation for Advent? Rather than hiding your preparation under the proverbial bushel basket, let that love and readiness for God's love shine forth today. How can you visibly show your faith today?

Today's Focus: God and the Torah at Mt. Sinai
Symbol: tablets
Scripture: Exodus 19:1-20, 20

Yesterday's Focus: The Israelites, Passover and Exodus
Tomorrow's Focus: Joshua and the Fall of Jericho

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