“Do What Is Right”
“Thou shalt
not see thy brother's ox or his sheep go astray, and hide thyself from them;
you shall certainly bring them back to your countrymen.” (v.1)
Among the
instructions God gave His people were ones regarding the possessions of others.
Straying animals were not to be ignored but returned. At times wandering
livestock was to be kept until the owner came to claim it. Even fallen animals
were to be assisted. "Do not ignore it" is a twice-repeated
instruction in the opening verses of Deuteronomy 22.
It is
easier to ignore than get involved. These instructions, though, remind us that
God is not concerned just with issues of wrongdoing but with relationships. His
people are not to just look out for themselves, but also for the needs and
well-being of others.
Once again
we are encouraged to get involved in the plights others face. God is concerned
that His people help others.
The Truth
“But whoever
has the world’s goods, and sees his brother in need and closes his heart against
him, how does the love of God abide in him? Little
children, let us not love with word or with tongue, but in deed and truth.” (1
John 3:17-18)
