Unfortunately, I did not get a lot from today’s reading we have not already discussed. However, as I have said before, it amazes me at the level of detail God puts into the instruction He gives to the Israelites through Moses. I know we no longer live under the law to receive salvation, but there is a lot of wisdom in the commands given to the Israelites (including the command to not eat vultures). There is nothing listed in the Bible by accident or without purpose. We must continue to read and digest every word because it is important, if for no other reason than to point us back to our imperfection without God’s saving grace through Christ’s sacrifice.
2013 Day 84 – Deuteronomy 14-16, Psalm 44
25 Monday Mar 2013
Posted in Daily Reading
Daily Devotion 
Don’t forget rock badgers. Can’t eat those either…
But it is very interesting how nutritionists and scientists would agree with most of the restrictions on meat.
I found this interesting. I must’ve missed it in earlier readings. For people who lived too far away to bring in 10% of their grain harvest, the Lord tells them to sell it and bring the money in.
“26When you and your family arrive, spend the money on food for a big celebration. Buy cattle, sheep, goats, wine, beer, and if there are any other kinds of food that you want, buy those too. 27 And since people of the Levi tribe won’t own any land for growing crops, remember to ask the Levites to celebrate with you.
28 Every third year, instead of using the ten percent of your harvest for a big celebration, bring it into town and put it in a community storehouse. 29 The Levites have no land of their own, so you must give them food from the storehouse. You must also give food to the poor who live in your town, including orphans, widows, and foreigners. If they have enough to eat, then the Lord your God will be pleased and make you successful in everything you do.”
He doesn’t tell them to give the money to the Levites, he tells them to throw a big party and invite the Levites. I don’t really know why the stands out to me, but it does.
And then they are to put food in the storehouse every 3 years. No money. Just food so the Levites have enough to eat. Again, interesting. And then, of course, the command to feed those who cannot fend for themselves: orphans, widows and foreigners (I’m assuming because foreigners did not have the same rights and advantages). Notice he didn’t say to give food to the Israelite neighbor down the street who decided not to work the fields that week.
Great stuff!