Loving the Foreigner- Directions for God’s People (Deuteronomy 10:17-19, 14:28-29, 16:14, 24:17-22)
In Deuteronomy, God laid out the laws, festivals, and directions he had for his people. Woven throughout are reminders of God’s love for the foreigner residing among his people! God makes it clear that he shows no partiality. Foreigners were to be included in the joyous celebration of the Jewish festivals. God also made sure they were provided for. Every three years, God’s people gave a tithe to provide food for the Levite priests and the foreigners. The people were also commanded to leave behind what remained in their fields for the foreigner to glean. God desired that his people love, provide and reach out to those around them who did not know him.
Family Activity
Prep Time: varies by project
Activity Time: varies by project
Materials: a book or a movie on Passover
Find a picture book or movie about the Jewish Passover at your local library, bookstore, YouTube, or streaming platform. Read or watch the story with your children. Explain that Passover is one of the Jewish festivals in which foreigners would have been included. Discuss what this festival could teach them about the God of Israel.
Bible:
Read Deuteronomy 10:17-19, 14:28-29, 16:14, 24:17-22 with your family.
Discuss:
1. What is one celebration of Jesus that our family observes every year? What could someone who did not know Jesus learn about him by participating in this celebration with us?
2. What are practical ways we could include a family from a different culture or religious background in this celebration?
Pray:
Ask God to give your family his compassionate heart for immigrants and refugees in your area.
