Old Testament reading: Leviticus 12-13
During the 14th century, the Black Plague took the lives of an estimated 75 million Europeans, nearly one third of the continent’s population. This was just one of many plagues throughout the histories of Europe and Asia. Much of the devastation could have been avoided if the Bible’s rules of quarantine had been considered and applied. Leviticus 13 shows the laws of isolation for those with diseases, particularly leprosy. Untold millions of lives could have been saved had people practiced God’s rules of quarantine during the various plagues of the last two millennia. In the first chapter of his classic work, None of These Diseases (1963), Dr. S.I. McMillen speaks to this very point. I recommend this book for anyone interested in seeing how God’s provision is seen in various laws concerning foods, disease, cleanliness and sanitation.
New Testament reading: John 8-9
If Matthew 7:1 is the most misused passage in the New Testament, then today’s reading contains its twin. John 8:7 and Matthew 7:1 have been used as a cloak for sin more than any passages I can think of. Anyone who speaks out against some sin or public transgression, or dare point out the incongruity of some public religious doctrine or practice will not have to wait long to hear “The Bible says not to judge” and/or “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.” The truth is, neither text forbids condemnation of sin, nor should either be used as a rebuttal when one’s sin is brought to light. Jesus’ statement in John 8:7 was given to show the Jewish accusers that they were in violation of the law they purported to defend. Leviticus 20:10 required both participants in adultery to be brought forth and put to death. As this woman was said to have been caught “in the very act,” her accomplice should also have been brought. Their failure in so doing was a violation of the law. Also seen in this account is the wisdom of age. Note how the John 8:9 says that those who were “convicted by their conscience” went away, beginning with the oldest. As is usually the case when cooler heads prevail, it begins with those whose age and experience allow them to see the truth more quickly and clearly than those who are younger and more driven by emotion.
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