To Fill Full . . .

February 23, 2010 at 9:29 am · Filed under Join the Conversation

Matthew 5:1-20   Exodus 28-29   Proverbs 13

I find it valuable to read today’s texts through the lense of Jesus’ word as recorded in Matthew 5:17 — “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill.” What is Jesus communicating here? And how does it relate to the readings in Exodus? Proverbs? How do you understand “fulfill?”

Reflect on the meaning of Jesus’ words. The word “abolish” can also be “destroy, demolish, or overthrow.” The word translated “fulfill” carries the meaning of “cram full” (as in a fishing net), or “satisfy, finish, complete, or make full.” With this in mind, what might it mean that Jesus who, like Moses, goes up the mountain to bring the word of God to the people (Matthew 5:1), does not come to demolish that original word, but to complete it? And how might this influence my — our — approach to the reading of the Hebrew scriptures (or, as we say, the “Old Testament”)?

To fill full . . . “pictures” of a priesthood brought to life? “Symbols” crammed with meaning? Acts of “righteousness” internalized? The blessings of God’s kingdom poured out on those who embrace Jesus as the embodiment of God with us? These are questions well-worth pondering, for this much we know: In Jesus all that God has spoken is brought to completion. And more: those who believe this — and seek to live it out — discover that their names are written on the heart of Jesus himself (Exodus 28:29).

Amen. And Amen.

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