March 9 – Reading 68

“GOD’S HEART FOR THE HURTING”
(Deuteronomy 22:1 – 24:22)

“You shall remember that you were a slave in Egypt; therefore I command you to do this.” — Deuteronomy 24:22

From the hurricane devastation in North Carolina to the Los Angeles fires that burned to the ground thousands of homes, it is not hard to imagine losing everything—your home, your family, your security. You wake up each day wondering how you’ll survive. In the ancient world, insurance, charities, and government bailouts were unavailable to help those experiencing such hardships. Additionally, pagan societies of the day preyed upon those who were poor, orphans, foreigners, enslaving them and using them for “worship” of their gods as temple prostitutes.  Israel’s God was very different; He cared about the vulnerable. So, He commanded His people to care for them. His heart for the hurting hasn’t changed, and He calls us to reflect His compassion today.

Life in ancient Israel wasn’t easy for everyone. People experiencing poverty, widows, orphans, foreigners, and formerly enslaved people often struggled just to survive. But God, rich in mercy, built compassion into Israel’s way of life. He commanded farmers not to harvest every last crop, leaving the edges of their fields for those in need (Deuteronomy 24:19-21). Wages had to be paid daily so workers could afford to eat (v. 15). Widows and orphans were protected, and foreigners were welcomed rather than oppressed.

Why? Because Israel had been there before. They had once been slaves in Egypt, suffering under cruel masters. God reminded them: “You know what it’s like to be helpless. Now that I have blessed you, take care of those who are struggling.”

This wasn’t just charity—it was a reflection of God’s heart. Centuries later, Jesus would carry this same concern, lifting up the broken and calling His followers to do the same.

New Testament Connection:

• James 1:27 — “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction.”

• Matthew 25:35-40 — Jesus says that caring for the hungry, the stranger, and the poor is like serving Him directly.
• Galatians 6:2 — “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”

Simple Truth:
God blesses us so that we can be a blessing to others. His heart is always for the vulnerable, and He calls His people to reflect that same compassion.

Reflection & Application:

• • Remember Where You Came From: Just as Israel was once in bondage, we were once lost in sin. How can you use your blessings to help others?

  • Live Generously: Can you support someone struggling financially or emotionally? Who needs your kindness today?

  • Be God’s Hands and Feet: Jesus cared deeply for the poor and the broken. How can you reflect His love in practical ways?
    

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for Your kindness and mercy. Open my eyes to the needs around me and help me reflect Your heart for the hurting. Give me a generous spirit and a willingness to serve, just as You have cared for me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.