When I learnt to write it was
on a slate board with chalk. Today people have computers – with spell checks. At least I was one step ahead of those in ancient time who had to write. They virtually had to collect the ingredients, clay, then cut into it their words –
hieroglyphics – then baked their tablet before posting it.
It is from that background of
the writer being initially an engraver we can appreciate certain facets of
God’s word. A lot of our writing technology today is subject to decay at a
faster rate than clay baked. Shards with inscriptions are still be found two thousand
and more years later.
It is worthwhile to note that
God is the original engraver. The 10 Commandments were chiselled into rock by
the finger of God, Exodus 31:18. The originals were placed in the Ark of the
Covenant as a testimony to the Nation. The trouble was that the people honoured
the writings but were deaf to its message. There were, of course, notable
exceptions who stand out in Biblical history. As the Lord wanted His people to
know His commands, judgements and statutes He had the people wear them as a
sign upon their hands and between their eyes. The New Testament described them
as phylacteries. Householders were instructed to have the commandments on their
doorposts and gates. In my youth I called upon people whose house had these
words printed on their veranda.
The trouble was it was all
outward, not inward.
God’s intention is for His people,
you and me included, to have them engraved on our hearts. This is another of
the implications behind the picture of God as the potter. If we are the clay,
and we need to be, guess what He wants to do? Engrave His word into our heart.
Hebrews 10:16 quotes Jeremiah who in turn expressed the Lord God’s intention to
write His laws into the hearts of His people. The wonder of this is summed up
by the Psalmist “Your word have I hidden in my heart that I might not sin
against you.’ (119:11) As with clay we too must experience the baking process.
For us it comes when what we hear from God’s word is written within the fire of
doubt, fear, opposition and self-interest arises. It is the testimony of our
faith and conviction that God’s word is true which causes the flames into
toughen and preserve God’s word within.
Psalm 119 is a wonderful psalm
about the Word of God and its relevance to everyday life. As it is engraved on
our heart so it will influence us consciously and unconsciously as 119:105 ‘
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.’ It is worth the time to
read the whole psalm for it seems to cover the writer’s journey from youth to
Age, from sickness and opposition to praise and wonder.
Job’s words in chapter
19:23-24 is a cry for people to properly understand his situation and hope in
God. His story is unique but his cry is a challenge to us all. We have a unique
testimony, simple or complex, everyday stuff or strange which the Lord could
use to witness to His power, grace and providence. If for no other reason have
a record of His dealings in your life to hand onto your family and friends in
the future. In a sense let the Lord’s engraving within you find expression on
paper or disc for others to know.
Notice also the hope,
confidence and longing of Job 19:25—29. He knows his Redeemer lives. –
How sure are you of your relationship with the risen Christ? Job believes his Redeemer will
set up His kingdom on earth. This is our position from the Lord’s Prayer. Job knows he will die yet is
convinced he will live beyond death and behold His Redeemer. This is the wonder
of our relationship too. We shall see Jesus face to face even though death may
stand between us at the moment. Job had a desire which would
see him through the tough times ahead. His heart yearns to be with his
Redeemer. This is a hallmark of Christ’s followers too. I want to know Him! I
want to serve Him! I want others to hear about Him! Most of all I want to see
Him!
Until that day we are to live
out what He has engraved within. Until that day we are to us our writing skills
so the Lord can become the Potter of another’s life whose heart becomes clay.
Then when the ‘Finger of God’ engraves His word onto their heart they will
declare “I know my Redeemer lives!”
Ray H.
.
No comments:
Post a Comment