Deuteronomy: Chapter 25

There is a line in the old hymn, 'they will know we are Christians by our love' which pops into mind as I consider this chapter:  'We'll protect each one's dignity and guard each one's pride.'  The laws in this portion of scripture speak about caring for the heart and spirit of others.  Whether in punishment, work or tragedy, scripture balances responsibility and accountability perfectly.  Delivering punishment to others endangers oneself--degrading another in your own eyes is not good.  Refusing to accept one's responsibility brings shame to their entire family.  All are to be held to the same standards.  Our plumb line for living is reverence for God...when our actions line up with that standard, we will have solid relationships with others.