"Don't misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to fulfill them. Matthew 5:17 (NLT)
I have been thinking a lot lately about the difference between God’s laws and our human laws. In the Sermon on the Mount one of the things Jesus does is to take the outward laws that the people were trying to adhere to and make them internal. He speaks about the heart behind tithing, fasting and praying (the religious actions of the day) as well as the heart behind peaceful living, marital fidelity and reconciliation.
Later in the book of Mathew Jesus sums up the law:
"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." Matthew 22:36-40 (NIV)
This is very different from our legal system. I would say our human laws are based on the principle: Don’t do unto others, as you don’t want them to be allowed to do unto you.
Our laws are based on protecting us from others - setting up rules that protect our persons and property. It has the focus on what actions we are not allowed to take. "Love your neighbor as yourself" on the other hand requires action.
I have always liked the quote:
"If you have no food you have a physical problem. If your neighbour has no food you have a spiritual problem."*
Those of us who work with individuals with developmental disabilities are equally held to two separate standards. We put ourselves in a position where the laws of the land do require action. The law requires us to treat people a certain way. There are regulations concerning abuse and neglect and we seek to comply in everyway to these standards. It is a wonderful thing that these standards are in place. The law however, can only judge our actions not our hearts.
As Christians working in this field we know God holds us to a higher standard. We are required by Him to love those we serve. We are required to treat them as we would want to be treated.
The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7b (NIV)
Mark Wallace
* I am sorry to say I can not remember who’s quote this is (or the exact wording). If anyone knows please feel free to comment on this blog so I can give credit where it is due.
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