What does the Lord require of you?

Micah 6:8

“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the
Lord require of you  but to do justice, to love kindness, and to
walk humbly with your God?”
Micah 6:8

After my grandfather passed away, we were blessed to have his Bible.  My grandfather was only formally educated through the third grade but was one of the most knowledgeable and well-read people that I have ever known.  He loved the Bible and his was well worn with notes, underlines and highlighting throughout.  One day I was looking through it and just opened it to a random page.  At the top of the page written in big, bold letters it said, “THE MOST IMPORTANT VERSE IN THE OLD TESTAMENT” with a line pointing to Micah 6:8.  That got my attention and as I have reflected on that statement over the years, I think he may be right.

My father passed away this past week.  As I reflect on my Dad’s life and legacy, this verse has come to mind. I am blessed to have had him as my Dad, and so thankful that he lived a life consistent with the precepts of Micah 6:8.

Do justice.  This means to live a righteous life – literally to do what is right.  My Dad was so faithful, so consistent in always trying to do what is right and teaching us to do the same.  There was rarely a reason needed other than it was simply the right thing to do.

Love kindness.  Loving kindness, or loving mercy as some translations render it, means to give yourself for the good of others in a spirit of love.  Dad loved well, and gave himself sacrificially, for the good of our family, for his church, and others in the world.

Walk humbly with your God.  Dad was a humble man.  Most people with his level of success would have been prideful.  Dad was always humble and never sought attention for himself.  Dad also walked “with his God”.  He was a follower of God and His Son Jesus.  My grandfather’s favorite hymn was “Just a Closer Walk With Thee”.  I believe the lyrics describe my Dad’s life well, and his passing from this life to his eternal home with his God.

Just a closer walk with Thee
Grant it, Jesus, is my plea
Daily walking close to Thee
Let it be, dear Lord, let it be 

When my feeble life is o’er
Time for me will be no more
Guide me gently, safely o’er
To Thy kingdom’s shore, to Thy shore