As a self-assessed Enneagram 1, rules and the desire to do what is right governs much of my life. I typically thrive in situations or environments where rules are outlined and I can clearly delineate between “good” and “bad”, which is why the college syllabus can be a godsend to me. This sacred document outlines the steps I need to take in order to receive the coveted ‘A’ (the only “good” grade), thus feeding into my internal narrative that I am maintaining my goodness and proving to others that I am worthy.
Much like a college syllabus, the Ten Commandments can be an Enneagram 1’s dream. Ten distinct rules that create a black and white world. Ten distinct rules that create a strict standard to follow. Ten distinct rules that can tell anyone whether you are “good” or “bad”. They’re a litmus test of morality and worthiness.
But then Jesus comes and flips the script. He doesn’t abolish the Ten Commandments – he fulfills them. Join me as we continue in our Narrative Lectionary series looking at Exodus and Matthew to see how Jesus is challenging us to break out of the confines of rigid rules and fulfill the law by widening our understanding and actions.
Let’s dig in this week,
Shannon and the Teaching Team
Lord’s Prayer
Christ, who taught us to pray saying:
Our Father who is in heaven, hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come, your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread and forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who’ve sinned against us.
Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For yours is the kingdom, and the power,
and the glory forever. Amen.
