Day 6: Do It Because I AM

February 23, 2026

Day 6: Do It Because I AM

Day 6, February 23

by Michael Lovett

Readings:

Lev 19:1-2, 11-18

Matt 25:31-46

Reflection:

If you prefer, watch the video for this devotional HERE after reading the scriptures today.

Did you ever hear your parent say, "Do it because I said so"? God leads off in Leviticus 19 with something even more authoritative. Do it because I AM. He expects holiness not just because he talks a big game. He expects holiness, also known as distinctiveness, "set apart-ness", resistance to the pull of the world, because that is who and what he IS. Wow, mic drop.

I am totally struck by how relevant this chapter, written THOUSANDS of years ago, is today. I know, it's filled with directives. But zoom out and consider a world where more people were deeply committed to living out the righteousness and integrity described in these verses. You know the song, "What the world needs now is love?" What the world needs now is Leviticus 19. The world needs us to personify, reflect, and bring more justice, level-headed fairness, no stumbling block in front of the disabled... the list goes on.

Sit with Leviticus 19 and imagine the excitement of Moses to paint a picture of a new society of freed Hebrew slaves. Leviticus was revolutionary; it was different and distinct. The Israelites were to be utterly holy because God is holy. We who claim Jesus is Lord should be deeply committed to this, so Lent is a time to realign.

This passage culminates with the GREATEST COMMANDMENT. If you are not a Christian but seeking, here is the gold. Jesus himself said it all boils down to this: Leviticus 19:18 "Love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord." Because of who God is, we do what he commands, so we might become more like him! Amazing.

Sit in silence, and ask God: "How do I need to live this scripture out? How might I bring more of your kingdom, God?"

Matthew 25 is Jesus's take on Leviticus for his current audience. Same theme, different audience. Same call to holiness, same care for the poor and to bring justice in the world, with a warning: We will be judged for what we do, good and bad. All of our choices matter; therefore, let us choose the Jesus way. Let's choose to love like God does, for the rest of our lives. Let us pray for wisdom and contentment in the work and the journey toward wholeness and holiness.