We often take a purposeful glance at the Law/Gospel distinctions in a passage. At first glance, today's reading in Leviticus seems to be entirely Law. It tells us, again and again, what we are to do. We are given commands, and here they are commands that we might even think we can keep. In general it's relatively easy to deal with most of the commands we see in this passage, all but one. We see over and over again that we are to fear God, honor his name, trust in the Lord. This, we ultimately confess, we will not be able to do very well. It's one thing to leave grapes in the vineyard for scavengers. We can do that. It's another thing to honor God's name in all we say and do. We stand condemned by this passage of the Law.
Where then do we find the Gospel, God's statement of what he does on our behalf? It is all through today's reading. Look at the reason God gives for us to do what he commands. Leave food for scavengers. I am the Lord. Tell the truth. I am the Lord. Don't rob or cause harm to anyone. I am the Lord. Pursue justice. I am the Lord. Love your neighbor. I am the Lord. On and on we see God commands us something and then proclaims himself the Lord. All these things our Lord commands us are his own characteristics. Has our Lord given us food? Is God the god of all truth? Isn't God the one who heals rather than harms? Is God the God of all justice? Is God love embodied? What has the Lord done? We could keep enumerating his grace and mercy forever.
Lord, You are the Lord. Amen.
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