Exodus 22:1 “Whoever steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters it or sells it must pay back five head of cattle for the ox and four sheep for the sheep.
I am a fan of rules and laws so that everyone knows what’s expected and how to conduct themselves, but I must admit that I am growing weary of this continued list of rules and laws. I want more of God. This is more of daily expectations so that we can all just get along, which, I suppose, is necessary if God is my focus.
Exodus 22:2 “If a thief is caught breaking in at night and is struck a fatal blow, the defender is not guilty of bloodshed;
Google searches on Exodus 22 say that the focus of the book is restorative justice if civil and moral laws are broken as well as social responsibility for the vulnerable. Actually, in light of the times we are currently living in, these things sound incredibly important. Perhaps we should all pay more attention.
Exodus 22:3 but if it happens after sunrise, the defender is guilty of bloodshed. “Anyone who steals must certainly make restitution, but if they have nothing, they must be sold to pay for their theft.
Precious Savior, It’s easy to get frustrated when bogged down in the minutiae of daily life. Thank You for the reminder that restorative justice and care for the vulnerable are just as important today as they were when Exodus was written. Help us to live in a way that brings You glory and points others to You. Help us. Amen.
Exodus 22:4 If the stolen animal is found alive in their possession—whether ox or donkey or sheep—they must pay back double.
Have a blessed day.