The BIG Picture

"Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings; for it is well for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by regulations about food, which have not benefitted those who observe them."

(Hebrews 13:9)

Six hundred thirteen. That's how many laws there are int he Hebrew Scriptures (aka "The Old Testament"). That's a lot. Especially if you have to remember them all. Actually, there was a group of religious leaders who specialized in not only remembering the laws, but actively working to make sure others "knew" (read "kept") them. [Now, in fairness to them, they also believed if ALL of Israel kept every law for just one day, God would reward them by sending the Messiah. So there was a good reason for their fastidiousness.]

The problem, of course, was that these Pharisees ended up focusing on the minute details of the law, and they seemed to lose sight of the bigger picture. So when Jesus was approached once and asked which law he thought was most important, he said there are two: love God with all you have, and love your neighbor as you love yourself. "Everything else will fall into place," Jesus said.

Today when I was reading Hebrews 13, I came across a verse I'd never focused on. The author is encouraging people not to be carried away from "strange teachings." Also, he says the bottom line is this: people are strengthened by GRACE... and "not by regulations about food, which have not benefited those who observe them." Meaning, look at the big picture folks. It's all about grace... love... acceptance... understanding... patience... and hope. That's the key. Food regulations (and other "minor" laws/rules/regulations)... um... not so much.

As a person of faith, I want to be known as one who is soaked in GRACE. Who offers it to others. Who uses it as a guide. Who works to develop a faith community where this happens as well. Lord, help this happen.