Leviticus 25: A Garden to Tend
FOR MANY OF us, farming—even gardening—is an alien occupation practiced by loners who wear flannel shirts and overalls and are separated from neighbors by many miles. Most of us live severed from the earth, unaware of our profound daily dependence on its bounty. God gave Israel, an agricultural society, guidelines for establishing just practices. Even those of us who are urban need to understand the link between environmental stewardship and justice.
Warming Up to God
Today's quiet time deals with how we are to care for God's creation. Recall a place in nature that has touched you. As you bring that place to mind, praise God for how he created it.
Read Leviticus 25. »
Discovering the Word
- What is the primary way the Israelites are to care for their land (vv. 3-5, 11)?
- What would a sabbath year for the land be like for the people of Israel (vv. 4-7)?
- What are the key provisions of the Year of Jubilee (vv. 13-22)?
- How do the guidelines for observing the Year of Jubilee show the link that exists between care of the land and justice for people?
- What images does the phrase "redemption of the land" bring to mind (v. 24)?
- Verses 25-55 contain principles for living on the land with others. What do these principles tell you about God's desires for the land and the people?
Applying the Word
- In what ways is taking good care of the land linked to justice for people in today's world?
- How is the misuse of land related to the oppression of people?
Responding in Prayer
Pray for those who suffer because we do not properly care for God's creation.
For Further Study
The Care of Creation edited by R. J. Berry