Hallelujah! Happy are they . . .

Hallelujah!
Happy are they who fear the Lord *
and have great delight in his commandments!
- Psalm 112:1

When I was learning how to drive, I had to memorize all the rules of the road.  My least favorite was always the speed limit because I thought I should be able to go as fast as I wanted.  As I was learning the rules it never crossed my mind to be thankful for them, instead I thought they were imposing on my freedom. I rarely find that I am thankful for rules. In fact, most days when our family sits together around the dinner table, we talk about what we are thankful for, and I don't think I have ever heard my children say, thank you for all the rules of the house that keep us safe and respectful.

My feelings about rules are very different from the way Moses, Sirach, or the Psalmists see God's rules.  They celebrated God's commandments. They knew that God's rules led to a better world and a better life. They knew that following God's way was life itself.  Often the Jewish people would even talk about dancing with joy when they were able to complete one of God's commandments. 

I wonder what it would be like to read the sermon on the mount with thanksgiving.  How do you feel when you read Jesus' words, "“You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, ‘You shall not murder’; and ‘whoever murders shall be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgment."  Does this make you jump with joy because you are capable and asked to do even more good in the world, or does it weigh you down with what seems like unrealistic expectations? For much of my life it was the latter, but the more I understand the mindset of the authors the more I find myself thankful that God has given us good rules, healthy expectations, and a better way to live. 

May you celebrate and dance every time you do good, or fulfill one of God’s commands this week.

Matt+