Daily Bible Reading – February 2022: God’s Renewing Word of Loveনমুনা

February 27

Introduction

The book of Deuteronomy is organized as a series of addresses given by Moses to the people of Israel in the land of Moab, where they had stopped at the end of the long wilderness journey and were about to enter and occupy Canaan. In today’s reading, Moses tells the people that the LORD wants them to obey the laws in the land they are about to occupy so that they may become a strong nation. (You may wish to refer to Deuteronomy 5:1-22 which recounts the Ten Commandments.) Today’s reading includes the great commandment (see verse 5) that Jesus later underscored (see Matthew 22:37; Mark 12:29, 30). Jewish tradition calls verses 4 and 5 the “Shema,” because the first Hebrew word of this passage is “shema,” which means “listen” or “hear.” The Good News Translation renders this word as “remember this!”

Scripture Reading

Deuteronomy 6:1-9

Today’s Key Verse: Deuteronomy 6:5

[Moses said:] “Love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.”

Reflect

Why are the Israelites told to never forget God’s commandments, to teach God’s laws to their children, and to write and discuss the laws over and over again? How might this kind of discipline impact their understanding and practice of the law? How might this discipline be helpful in your daily life? Have you ever memorized the “Shema”? If not, consider doing so today.

Pray

Lord God, I love you with all my heart, soul, and strength. Keep me faithful and obedient to your will. I want to obey your commandments and honor you always. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Deuteronomy 6:10-25: Moses warns the Israelites against disobedience.