18 “And when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself in a book a copy of this law, from that which is in the charge of the Levitical priests; 19 and it shall be with him, and he shall read in it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the LORD his God, by keeping all the words of this law and these statutes, and doing them; 20 that his heart may not be lifted up above his brethren, and that he may not turn aside from the commandment, either to the right hand or to the left; Deuteronomy 17:18-20 (RSV)
Companions,
This is the time of year for the installation of Officers where we hear words such as: “Now my Companions, due to the nature of our institution, some, of necessity, must rule and govern, while others must, of course, submit and obey.” The derivation of our virtues that keep us within due bounds of all mankind comes from the Great Light on the Altar. We do not have to write our own copy of the Bible as the Kings of Israel did but the admonition to keep it close and read it all the days of our life is still sound advice. We should be thankful and take advantage of the fact that we have a copy of the Holy Bible so readily available to study. Whether we are chosen to rule and govern or submit and obey may we keep the words of the law in mind that our hearts may not be lifted up above our brethren but be ever fixed on God who rules and governs forever.
Eternal God, give us faith to receive your Word, wisdom to understand it and the courage to live it. Amen.
Jack A. Holloway
I. Associate Grand Chaplain