Exodus 20:12-26  The last 6 commandments given to Moses deal with relationships between people.. families, neighbors, communities... nations.  

"Honor your father and your mother..."   Don't murder, commit adultery, steal, lie, or covet what doesn't belong to you.  

All of these things are good and reasonable.. bringing peace and harmony in society.  The Lord starts His focus on the relationships within the family.. the foundation for the rest.  A family where children honor and respect their parents.. where husbands and wives respect and honor their marriage covenants.. this is a family where God is honored and it pleases Him. 

A community that respects and honors others is a place where murder and theft and fraudulent testimonies will not be accepted.  A place where people are grateful for what they have and don't lust after what others have.. is a place of peace and security and rest. 

But.. we know that such ideal places don't exist in our world.. because sin has taken hold of every heart. Oh that the world would receive the redemption that comes through Jesus Christ the Lord.  

The people of Israel listened as the thunder pealed out, the lightning flashed and the fire from heaven caused them to tremble. They didn't want to hear any more.. but the Lord wanted them to hear what He had to say..so that they would have His blessing as they learned to walk in His ways. They needed to have a healthy reverent fear of the Lord. But, they also need to worship Him and Him alone. So do we.. 

Father in heaven, Your commandments are perfect in every way... if only we would keep them all! Thank You that You have given us a Savior that has made a way for us.. to walk in the Spirit and to do all Your good and perfect will in Him.  We are helpless without Your grace, Lord God.  Cause Your name to be found in us.. cover us with Your banner.. fill us with Your Truth and love.  We have died in Christ.. died to sin and died to the law.. but we live in Him alone to do Your good will.  Have Your way in us today we pray. Amen.