EQUAL PROTECTION
The inclusion of this commandment in the laws given to Israel after its liberation from Egypt is interesting. It starkly contrasts with other teachings in the Old Testament, such as the condemnation of Solomon for having relations with alien women and the practice of not eating with others considered unclean.
Indeed, this commandment is far more evocative of some of the teachings and practices of Jesus that so scandalized the religious hierarchy, such as eating with tax collectors and curing lepers.
It is troubling that some today have adopted an intolerance that discards Jesus’ extension of grace to those who were not followers of the law and instead insists on offering a place at the table only to those who embrace their religious principles. If we are to model our behavior after Christ, we must offer a place at the table to those who differ from us, whether that difference is one of ethnicity, creed, gender, or social standing.
When we fail to do so, our faith is not reflecting the transformation Christ made from salvation based on obedience to the law to salvation based on grace, and from an exclusive faith to an inclusive faith.
This passage from Exodus speaks to the importance of giving legal rights to all. A place at the table in our society includes equal protection under the law. We must ensure that this is available to all.
God, help us to reach out to others and to provide a place at the table for all, including those who differ from us.
Ted Vlamis
