Covenant Commitment

Have you ever struggled to keep a promise? All of us have to admit that we do. It’s a natural part of our being human, whether purposeful disregard to keeping our word or simple inability to always be able to do what we say we will do. 

G-d does not have a problem keeping his promises because well, He is G-d! He formalizes what He says He will do in what is called a Brit (Covenant), which is a particular kind of formal relationship made between persons, characterized by mutual obligations. Thus a covenant relationship is not merely a mutual “acquaintanceship” but a deep relational commitment involving responsibility and action. Its faithfulness within relationship!

Just a few examples to consider:

G-d in his love has covenanted Himself to mankind despite our faithlessness, “I will remember My covenant that is between Me and you and every living creature of all flesh. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all flesh.” Genesis 9:15

G-d has covenanted Himself to Israel despite our faithlessness, “Thus says Adonai: “Only if heaven above can be measured and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, then also I will cast off the offspring of Israel—for all they have done.” It is a declaration of Adonai.” Jeremiah 31:37

G-d has covenanted Himself to us who have accepted Messiah Yeshua’s atonement despite our faithlessness, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

As we begin the new Jewish year of 5779, let us rejoice in our G-d who keeps His promises even when we can’t and won’t!

Forward for Messiah!

Kirk Gliebe

Rabbi & Director