reflecting the first blesser

Deuteronomy 15:11-15

Deuteronomy 15:11 For there will never cease to be poor people in the land; that is why I am commanding you, and this is what I say: ‘Open your hand willingly to your poor and needy brother in your land.’

Deuteronomy 15:12 “If your fellow Hebrew, a man or woman, is sold to you and serves you six years, you must set him free in the seventh year.

Deuteronomy 15:13 When you set him free, do not send him away empty-handed.

Deuteronomy 15:14 Give generously to him from your flock, your threshing floor, and your wine press. You are to give him whatever Yahveh your God has empowered you with.

Deuteronomy 15:15 Remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt and Yahveh your God redeemed you; that is why I am giving you this command today.

reflecting the first blesser

God wants his community to follow his pattern. His pattern for the Israelites was to redeem them from slavery. He expects the Israelites to follow that pattern when it comes to their own brothers and sisters. There will always be poor people among them because God wants their fellow Israelites to rescue them as a reflection of his character.

God empowers us for the same reason. He wants us to use the blessings he gives us to bless others, and so reflect his character as the first giver.

Lord, show us how help those around us, and so draw attention to you.