In our scripture reading last Sunday, we heard these familiar words from Joshua’s speech to all the tribes of Israel: “Now if you are unwilling to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve…but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord” (24:15).
These words have been cross-stitched, embroidered, painted, stenciled, and carved into plaques, wall-hangings, table runners, furniture, and who-knows-what-else. They are beautiful and powerful words of intent, conveying a promise that allof God’s people should aspire to honor. And indeed, this is exactly what the Israelites’ commit to doing. Although the Narrative Lectionary omits the peoples’ immediate response to Joshua’s declaration, we read in verses 16-18: “…we also will serve the Lord, for he is our God.”
The people have just been reminded of God’s faithfulness throughout the generations, prompting a renewed sense of gratitude for all that God has done for them. How can their response be anything other than to serve the Lord? In fact, they will reiterate their commitment to God two more times!
Last week, my husband and I cared for our six-month-old grandson for a few days while his parents were out of town. One afternoon I laid down on the living room floor across from Thaddeus, watching him take delight in a toy as a recording of Bach’s Cello Suite #1 wafted gently around us. Suddenly, my eye caught sight of the sunlight illuminating the burnt orange leaves of the maple tree in our yard, and just like that, I was filled with awe and wonder, overwhelmed by God’s goodness.
In moments like this or when reflecting on all that God has done for me over the course of my life I, like the Israelites, feel a renewed sense of commitment to be faithful to the one, true God who has claimed me and promised to never let me go. How can my response be anything other than to serve the Lord?! But unfortunately, my commitment wavers, and my efforts often fail miserably.
We may be filled to the brim with good intentions and the genuine desire to live faithfully in response to God’s faithfulness. The problem, of course, is that we are fallible human beings. Only one party is faithful to the Covenant between God and God’s beloved people, and (spoiler alert!) it’s not us. But we can rest assured that even when we are not faithful, God is faithful still.
Loving God, we give you thanks for your goodness and grace. Help us to serve you with joy and gratitude, and remind us that even when we fall short, your boundless love for us does not change. Amen.