The third covenant we encounter this Lent is the covenant given through Moses, the Lawgiver. The Ten Commandments of the first reading (Exodus 20:1-17) describe the shape of a new relationship. Israel becomes a people who is amazingly drawn into a Covenant Relationship with the Lord.

What is the chaos they are dealing with? In one word, idolatry – worshipping false gods, or, putting anything else in God’s place. The struggle of idolatry marked Israel’s existence. Though they are God’s first chosen people, they continued to turn to “gods” which they could seek to manipulate, or even make.

Psalm 19 reveals to us that God’s commandments are not external impositions or burdens. Rather, they are refreshing, rejoicing the heart, enlightening the eye, and enduring forever. When we embrace them, they are more precious than gold, and sweeter than honey.

Jesus brings about a new Covenant relationship with God, because he is one with God. His authority over the Temple is the authority of the God who is worshiped there. Only he can legitimately take control over the corruption there. He also reveals a new, profound relationship with the Father, which will be manifest in His sacrifice on the Cross and vindicated in His Resurrection.

This Lent we confront the idols we worship, and our sinful resentment at God’s laws. We are invited to renew our relationship with the Father in Jesus through lives of sacrifice, embracing the sweetness of his Commandments. We are beloved sons and daughters who enter into the foolishness and weakness of the Cross, and so encounter Christ, the power of God and the wisdom of God. (1 Corinthians 1:22-25).