Daily Devotionals

Voice of the Lord

Devotional: 28th of Cheshvan

The existing authorities have been placed where they are by God (Romans 13:1).

We may not always agree with those who govern us, but respect is another matter. David maintained respect even when King Sha'ul (Saul) hunted him. When we realize that leaders are "placed where they are by God," then respect for God's sovereignty should guide our attitudes and actions. Sometimes, however, the person in the position of authority should not be followed. Sometimes matters of conscience or observance of God's Law may require circumventing the law of the land.

Consider the story of Yehudah and Antoninus. Both were newborns in the days of the Emperor Hadrian. Rabbi Shim'on, head of the Sanhedrin (Jewish High Court) disobeyed Roman law by circumcising Yehudah, his son. (Circumcision was illegal in the days of Hadrian.) Mother and son were sent to Rome for trial. On the way, they stopped at an inn, where Yehudah's mother told her story. Deeply moved, the innkeeper's wife said,"Leave your baby here and take my son Antoninus to Rome. When the Emperor sees an uncircumcised child, you will be set free to return here."

The babies were exchanged. At Rome, the Emperor saw the uncircumcised baby and exclaimed, "What use is this law, if the God of Israel can make this baby whole?" The law was repealed. Mother and child were sent home. Back at the inn, the babies were exchanged once again. One grew up to become Rabbi Yehudah HaNasi, head of the Sanhedrin, and the other became Antoninus, Emperor of Rome and friend of the Jews.

...show respect for authority figures with whom I disagree, and recognize when obedience to God's law might require disobeying the law of the land.

JEF