"If you see someone trying to get an ox or donkey on its feet when it has slipped beneath its load; don't look the other way. Go and Help!" Deuteronomy 22:4 (TLB)
In ancient Israel, not only was helping your neighbor a nice thing to do, it was commanded by the Law of Moses. Because Jehovah is a God of Justice, even the "small" things are important to him. His law commended for brother to help brother, and sister to help sister. A community was to work together and lend support to each other as it was needed. This made for a more stable village and closer ties between people.
We have a modern rule called "finders Keepers." God's rule to Israel was if something was found, clothing or animal, it did not matter, it was to be taken care of until the owner came looking for it. Being sexually impure was a cause to be stoned by the village. The Lord did not want harlots around his chosen people. Also, this shows the wisdom of the Lord thousands of years before we learned of sexually transmitted diseases, and shows the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit in writing the Bible.
We may not help someone get their ox back on it's feet anymore, but when was the last time you stopped to help someone change a tire? How about helping someone jump start their car? Seen someone three dollars short in the grocery store line, and given it to them, expecting nothing in return? I think God still expects us to help our neighbors, when we have an opportunity to. Just think how much better we would be with an attitude of helpfulness and service, instead of a "me first" Attitude.
As a God of Justice, which one do you think pleases our Master more?
Copyright 2007 Timothy E. Davis