April 30, 2016

Signing Off

Deuteronomy 6:1-9

These are the commands, decrees and laws the Lord your God directed me to teach you.

—  Deuteronomy 6:1

Moses knew that his time with Israel was coming to an end. Can you imagine what was going through his mind during this final stage of his career as Israel’s leader? Was he reflecting on how God shaped him for this role throughout his life? Was he remembering all the ways God had used him to lead Israel for so many years?

Now it was time to sign off. I’m sure Moses was happy to hear God calling Israel to remember all that God had done for them. Moses knew that these people were forgetful. They often forgot who God was and what God had done. They forgot the commands, decrees, and laws that God had given to equip Israel to live holy lives that would point other nations to God.

I need regular reminders, and I’m sure you do as well. I am glad for the wedding ring on my finger, the “to do” list on my computer, daily devotions, weekly worship, and annual holidays. I am glad too for the story of Moses.

Reminders help us to see every­thing in life as grace—special gifts from God. We can also see that everything in our life is training for whatever mission God has for us in this life and the next.

May we too recall and show our thanks for all that God has done for us.

Train us as you trained Moses, Lord. Shape us as you shaped Israel. Shower us too with grace, and send us as your witnesses into your beautiful but broken world! In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

About the author — David Den Haan

Pastor Dave Den Haan has served at Fairway Christian Reformed Church in Jenison, Michigan, since 1999. Previously he served a church in Minnesota. Dave and his wife, Connie, have three children.

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