Daily Bible Reading – October 2022: God’s Renewing Word of Peace and JusticeShembull

October 23 Introduction Today’s reading is part of a section in the book of Deuteronomy that contains a code of laws. This section continues through 26:19. In today’s reading, all debts owed by Israelites to one another are to be canceled every seven years, and slaves are to be set free. Scripture Reading Deuteronomy 15:1-18 Today’s Key Verse: Deuteronomy 15:4a [Moses said:] “The LORD your God will bless you in the land that he is giving you.” Reflect In the Bible, seven is a number symbolizing completeness or perfection. Canceling debts at the end of six years was designed to ensure that people would not become trapped in poverty. The people are warned not to let the upcoming seventh-year law keep them from lending money to the poor (verse 9). How do the laws outlined in today’s reading demonstrate life in a compassionate community? Are such laws relevant today? Why or why not? Pray Lord God, I worship you. Teach me to obey faithfully everything you command and do what is right. May all I do and say reflect your love and compassion and be pleasing to you. Amen. Tomorrow’s Reading Deuteronomy 16:1-22: Three major festivals in Israel’s calendar are celebrated.