December 15th, Advent Day 19
Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end.
Psalm 119:33
Rules and laws can provide structure and a clear understanding of expectations. Sometimes it feels like rules are constricting or even harsh. For example whenever the topic of bylaws comes up, my eyes roll and I feel a nap coming on. But I have learned that rules, even bylaws, can be loving and provide comfort and security.
When Moses came down from the mountain after receiving “The Ten Commandments”, the people were afraid and Moses said, “Don’t be afraid; God has only come to test you and make you keep on obeying him, so that you will not sin”(Exodus: 20:20). These rules for living life continue to give us structure for a peaceable life.
Many years ago I was a foster parent to a teenage girl who came from a life without structure or rules. Although she balked and was sometimes unhappy with my rules, I overheard her on the phone with friends saying “my mom won’t let me…” and later she thanked me because I gave her an out to going somewhere that would have been dangerous and she really didn’t want to go. She appreciated the rules.
Today I am grateful and seek to understand the rules in any situation to feel safe and secure. When I read scripture I find peace and understanding and strive to apply the rules in all my life. “Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end” (Psalm 119:33). “Owe no one anything, except to love one another, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law” (Romans 13:8).