My Promise

Lectio:

JOS 24:1-2A, 15-17, 18B

Joshua gathered together all the tribes of Israel at Shechem,
summoning their elders, their leaders,
their judges, and their officers. 
When they stood in ranks before God,
Joshua addressed all the people:
"If it does not please you to serve the LORD,
decide today whom you will serve,
the gods your fathers served beyond the River
or the gods of the Amorites in whose country you are now dwelling. 
As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD."

But the people answered,
"Far be it from us to forsake the LORD
for the service of other gods. 
For it was the LORD, our God,
who brought us and our fathers up out of the land of Egypt,
out of a state of slavery. 
He performed those great miracles before our very eyes
and protected us along our entire journey
and among the peoples through whom we passed. 
Therefore we also will serve the LORD, for he is our God."

Studium:

This gathering at Shechem is a ceremony but the reasons for the ceremony are arguable.  It seems to be a pledge to Yahweh.  It also is an affirmation of previous covenants.  Either view shows the ceremony to be a supportive communal gathering.

Meditatio:

I will serve the Lord.  This is a promise knowing that it will entail responsibility.  It will require a lifetime of faithfulness and obedience.

Oratio:

I will remain faithful (to the point of stupidity!) because I believe Jesus is my Savior, The Father is my Creator, and the Holy Spirit is what holds it all together.

Contemplatio:

As for me, I choose to serve the Lord.