So now that Brueggemann has offered us a look at this love, we now will venture into
'Israel's Covenantal Obligation."
The theme of obedience in these same texts moves us to a second aspect of YHWH's inexplicable originary commitment to Israel. The initiatory act of love, rescue, and designation is made by a sovereign who in this act of love does not cease to be sovereign. Therefore this relationship, marked by awe and gratitude for inexplicable generosity, brings with it the expectations and requirements of the sovereign who initiates it. The common rubric for this sovereign expectation is "covenant." YHWH designates Israel as YHWH's covenant partner, so that Israel is, from the outset, obligated to respond to and meet YHWH's expectations. As covenant partner of YHWH, Israel is a people defined by obedience.
Some people do not like the fact that Redeemer does 'covenant' ceremonies for same gender couples. That dislike is from several sides. Those who just downright think same-gender relationships are wrong. Those who think we need to just call it a marriage ceremony. Though I come closest to this last group, I treasure this word - covenant. We have lost some of the power that is contained in it. God pulls Israel into a covenant relationship. God is already there - ready - loving - passionate. Now it is the people who are being asked to 'sign on the dotted line' and become the other party in what will be the shape of the life to come. Israel and their God will be - indistinguishable from one another. The covenant will call Israel into a life that is already one that God will never abandon. Therefore, Israel is to become the life that is called forth from YHWH. That is the covenant. The relationship - the love - the eternal commitment is there....now the life. It will be this covenant that will come to voice through the prophets who had a way of calling Israel a whore - for not living within the vision of the covenant. That passionate God of yesterday's devotion is the one that will never let Israel get away with becoming nothing more than any other people who sell themselves to other powers.
Connection: Covenant is vital to our deepest and most committed relationship. It is not a word to throw around without knowing of its depth and power for life.
O God, who makes us a partner in the making of new life, hold us to the covenant that you offer to us. Remind us of what it is to trust in you and what it is to live as though that trust and love is the firm foundation of our mutual love Amen.
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