Leviticus 19:9-14 - Homilies By J.a. Macdonald

Kindliness.

In the earlier portion of this chapter purity of worship, with its associated reverence for the authority of God, in his representatives, viz. natural parents, and his institutions, as the sabbath, are enjoined. In the verses following our duties towards our fellows come more prominently before us, and in the text that class of those duties whose spirit is kindliness. Charity is sister to piety. We have here enjoined—

I. A GENEROUS CONSIDERATION FOR THE POOR .

1 . The needs of the gleaner are to be respected.

2 . The authority of God must be remembered.

II. A CAREFUL AVOIDANCE OF INJUSTICE .

1 . Wrong must not be practiced stealthily.

2 . Lies must not be uttered.

3 . Nor must wrong be openly perpetrated.

III. A TENDER RESPECT FOR THE CONDITION OF THE AFFLICTED .

1 . "Thou shalt not curse the deaf."

2 . " Nor put a stumblingblock before the blind."

3 . "But thou shalt fear thy God."

the dust. They come from God or are permitted by him. To take advantage of them or to trifle with them is therefore to tempt the Lord.