Exodus 20:1-11

Pastor Dave began by describing a Goldilocks “just right” view of the Law: Obeying the 10 Commandments does not make us righteous, but it does make us more like Christ, our Savior, by helping us love God and love each other. The Law doesn’t save us, but it sanctifies us. Thank God that He doesn’t leave us guessing how to please Him.

The first two commandments are a call to do an “idol check.” I don’t have a Buddha statue or healing crystals in my home. I do have a crucifix from Germany that is part of my Lenten display, but I don’t worship it. So, am I OK? Dave challenged us to consider whether we have taken a blessing from God and elevated it to idol status. Perhaps it is my house, which I want to be perfect, a healthy and fit body, a sport, or a hobby. Ask the Lord to show you what you are bowing down to and serving, besides Him. Ask, what am I willing to sacrifice just about anything for? There’s your idol.

It is also easy to give ourselves credit for obeying the third commandment because we don’t use God’s name as a curse word. Dave suggested that using God’s name mindlessly – for example, expressing mild surprise with “Oh my God!” – violates the third commandment. God takes His name seriously, and so should we. Dave also noted that the Hebrew word translated “take” can also be translated “carry” or “bear.” If we carry God’s name by calling ourselves Christians but don’t live out His ways, we dishonor His name. Let’s not be quick to assume we never take God’s name in vain and instead ask Him if, when, and how we do.

Dave acknowledged several times that he was stepping on toes, and that was certainly true as he discussed the fourth commandment. He said that both workaholics and “play-aholics” figure out their schedule and then decide if they have time to keep the Sabbath holy by attending church on Sunday. That’s exactly backwards, he said. He asked why God is the first one shortchanged in a busy week. He noted that recent statistics reveal people who claim to be regular church attenders actually attend only two weeks out of five. Now let me step on some toes! There are good reasons for people in high-risk categories to be live-streaming the worship service right now. But, being acquainted with human nature and my own weaknesses, I suspect there are others who are live-streaming the service – or watching later – because it’s easier or more convenient. Before the Lord, examine your own commitment to keeping the Sabbath holy by meeting together. Ask Him to help you make it a high and holy priority.

Speaking of meeting together, Pastor Dave announced that plans are underway for resuming indoor services in our new worship center in the foreseeable future, with two services each Sunday and children’s programs. The restart of many ministries means that volunteers will be needed to serve. The Children’s Department, which includes nursery through sixth grade, requires many faithful servants. Begin to pray about how the Lord wants you to fellowship and serve in coming months.

In Christ,
Carol Gilbert
Calvary Community Church of Brea

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