Dirk Taljaard

Reading from Scripture

Exodus 20:5-6

… I am the Lord your God and I tolerate no rivals. I bring punishment on those who hate Me and on their descendants down to the third and fourth generation. But I will show my love to thousands of generations of those who love Me and obey my laws.

In our country it is common knowledge that guests of honour or keynote speakers many a times do not pitch at meetings or functions. The reason? Something more important or interesting came up. Loyalty is a not that important. The situation determines priorities. We have been absorbed by the so-called consumer mentality.

Even the faith community has not eluded its fangs. People are willing to serve and follow the Lord as long as nothing better comes up. Faith is but one option among others, depending on where one finds the best deal. In a post modern society immediacy is a buzz word, especially with regards to the gratification of desires and needs. Faith, as a long term commitment, does not always fit into that mould.

Whole-hearted loyalty towards God is non-negotiable. God does not tolerate rivals. He is a jealous God who is not prepared to share. He never plays second fiddle to anyone. He hates half-heartedness. And because He was the One who rescued them from Egypt, He lays claim to their fidelity and love.

One finds a warning here: if you were to try and do a balancing act in an effort to satisfy God among others, you may just be confronted by his ‘punishing side’ – extended over three to four generations. He never merely overlooks sin. It’s a matter of principle. Sin always has consequences….

One also finds a promise: love and all the other wonderful gifts for the faithful - also extending over generations. Yet, whilst God can only count to three or four with regards to sin and punishment, his arrhythmic reaches into the thousands when it involves love and fidelity.

This is exactly what Jesus, who is the image of God (2 Cor 4:4) came to teach us by his actions, so that we may become true image bearers of God.

Heavenly Father, help me to love you with everything I am. Amen.