As we continue reading in Deuteronomy 15 we begin to enter into more legalistic understandings of the covenant and in this chapter, we find some financial advice. Moses reminds Israel about the sabbath year and the remission of debts that occurs in the year in order to correct economic imbalances. Appropriate protocols are established so this can be done in an orderly fashion. It is possible that this chapter was written at a later date when commercial activity had increased in Israel. The laws governing land and land usage are expanded to cover financial debts as well.
Through Moses, God reminds Israel that all will be blessed, God's providence will establish that. However, they are to care for one another and provide for those in need. In the words "Open your hand to the poor and needy neighbor in your land" God establishes the reality that this new community is to care for all, it is a new standard but God's love is seen in these practices. Even slaves, now released after six years, when freed, are to not go away empty handed.
The end section reminds Israel that the first born of all livestock are consecrated to the Lord and not be used for work. This section forms a transition to Deuteronomy 16 with its discussion of Passover and other festivals. Moses provides the guidelines for worship during these festivals, note the continued emphasis upon providing worship at the appointed locations for sacrifices. During each of the festivals provided, men are to come to the worship site with appropriate offerings.
Chapter 16 closes with a description of how judges and officers are to be appointed. This is to be a just society, based upon the Word of God and these judges shall act accordingly.
In an strange aside, Moses then reminds Israel of some forbidden forms of worship that will lead to a further conversation in the next chapter.
Psalm 34
The Psalm is a general thanksgiving which also takes on an instructional aspect of how to turn to God. It begins with testimony to God who hears the cries of the afflicted and responds. The angel is not just a messenger of God but an extension of God's Will. Those who trust in God fair better than the youngest and strongest of lions.
This love of God leads the psalmist to seek to teach others about the ways of God and the goodness of those ways. God cares for the righteous, those who are innocent victims of the wicked. The righteous find life in God, the wicked find death.
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