Law as Lifestyle Example

The texts from the Roman Catholic Lectionary today celebrate the gift of the Law and Ordinances. In Deuteronomy, Moses presents the statutes as the guide for the lifestyle which the Israelites are to live. This lifestyle will show the other peoples the wisdom and discernment they have acquired from God. The closeness of God to Israel will bring the other peoples to know God. The psalmist praises how the Lord has dealt with Israel by giving the law and ordinances which testify to the presence of God. In Matthew’s gospel Jesus makes it clear that the purpose of these laws and ordinances are to be fulfilled. The world is to see and know that God is present in peoples. Those who teach and demonstrate this Presence are blessed.