Mishpatim מִּשְׁפָּטִים - Laws
Exodus: 21:1-24:18
Reading #2 - Exodus 21:20–22:3
My Thoughts:
Today’s reading we learn about justice. If someone does some ill will to you, then there must be compensation. The punishment should match the crime. And apparently if you can’t find a way to initiate equal justice then here is your remedy. A life for a life. In our time, it’s called capital punishment. And we live under the law in our land. But, if we were to be a new nation like the Israelites, then here are your instructions -- and here is your Law. For every crime there is a punishment, like it or not. It is clearly spelled out.
Challenge:
How do you feel about equal justice? Do you think everyone who does something intentionally wrong should be punished? Is it a fault among our family and friends that we are not punished for wrongdoings? For instance, if your young child hits you, do you say, “Oh, don’t hit daddy. That’s not nice.” Or do you spank him for hitting you? This section of Scripture really makes you think about equity in punishment. It is obvious the end goal is to learn to be a better person. To learn how to treat others. Make changes where necessary, but do it with equity.
Reading #2 - Exodus 21:20–22:3
21:20 “If a man strikes his servant or his maid with a rod, and he dies under his hand, the man shall surely be punished. 21 Notwithstanding, if his servant gets up after a day or two, he shall not be punished, for the servant is his property.
