Trinity 17

Learning the First Three Commandments

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As the children have gathered at the beginning of Sunday School the past few weeks, we’ve begun reviewing the Ten Commandments.

During the first week, I discussed how they have a similar pattern to the goofy monkeys that cover their eyes, ears, and mouth as they “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.”

You see, the First Commandment, “You shall have no other gods,” speaks regarding our hearts and the trust and faith we are to have in God as we confess.

So, when we speak the First Commandment, our hands cover our hearts, symbolizing the trust and faith we are to have in God.

In the Second Commandment, our hands go to our lips as we say, “You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God.” This is a practical reminder that all our words should
glorify God and reflect the faith and trust we have in Him.

This week, we will focus on the Third Commandment, “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.”

At this time, our hands touch our ears to remind us that we are called to come to church and hear God’s Word. Remember what the Apostle Paul wrote in Romans, “Faith
comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17)

This is the lesson for all of us: As we come to church and the Divine Service, we receive God’s Word, which creates faith within us so that our words reflect the confession and
faith of our hearts—that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world.

God be with you,
Pastor Rogness