Exod 22:20-26 (& cf 24:9-11) Ps 17:2-4. 47. 51. R.2 1 Thess 1:5-10; Matt 22:34-40
In our reading from Exodus the Lord expands the rather general Ten Commandments into detailed rules for living, with practical laws and punishments. In this covenant or treaty the Lord promises his favour and the people accept certain obligations. Moses sprinkled blood on the people to seal this covenant with the Lord. The sacrificial meal, eating and drinking in the Lord’s presence, ritually confirms the people now belong to the family of the Lord.
Five verses sum up this very long Psalm, thanking God for his help against enemies while welcoming his justice.
Continuing our reading from the earliest surviving Christian document, Paul concludes his address to the Thessalonians with fulsome praise for them. He knows they are chosen and loved by God because others have told him the examples they give. Especially their imitation of Christ, and their acceptance of the word of the risen Lord, in spite of suffering persecution.
In Matthew’s Gospel it is now the turn of the Pharisees to test Jesus. But they fare no better than the Sadducees heard last week. Again Jesus shows that he is the authoritative interpreter of the Jewish Scriptures. Even the detailed rules given to Moses can be summed up in the requirement to love God and your neighbour.
Psalm Response: I love you, Lord, my strength.