We all must be obedient to something or someone. As we enter the final chapters of Deuteronomy (and the close of the Pentateuch – five books of law), Moses makes clear that the renewal of Israel is possible. After forty years of wandering in the wilderness, God’s covenant remains. The question is whether the people will remain true to the covenant as they enter the Promised Land. Obedience will result in great blessing. Disobedience is really not an option as we read through the curses. Who would want what chapter 29 describes? But the choice is before them. They can abandon God and the covenant, as some among them no doubt are doing, or they can keep the covenant and remain loyal to the LORD as God.

We have a similar choice each day. Will we remain loyal to God? If so, we follow in the ways of God. Whatever we choose has consequences. Paul says: People reap what they sow. Those who sow to please their sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; those who sow to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:7-9)

I can be impatient about the results. As I get older I gain a perspective that helps me to see what has been sown in my life as a result of the loyal I have given to the one I have chosen to obey.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers and sisters. Amen.