Leviticus 18
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Leviticus 18:6-10, No one is to approach any close relative to have sexual relations. I am the Lord. Do not dishonor your father by having sexual relations with your mother. She is your mother; do not have relations with her. Do not have sexual relations with your father’s wife; that would dishonor your father. Do not have sexual relations with your sister, either your father’s daughter or your mother’s daughter, whether she was born in the same home or elsewhere. Do not have sexual relations with your son’s daughter or your daughter’s daughter; that would dishonor you.
This chapter details the sexual practices that were prohibited by God. God was clearly forming a holy people and wanted to forbid anything even vaguely resembling pagan practices. The grim reality was that the pagan cultures surrounding God's people engaged in all kinds of horrific sexual practices. These prohibitions in chapter 18 were also intended to protect the family unit so that families could grow and be physically, emotionally, and spiritually healthy; to promote an abundant life.
As a former clinical social worker and now a pastor, I have worked with many women and men who have been victims of sexual abuse and/or adultery. Children who have experienced sexual abuse at the hands of a trusted adult experience significant trauma and it often takes years and years of treatment to come to terms with the abuse. Many never receive the treatment they need. Adultery is also damaging to the emotional and spiritual health of an individual. God knew that these are behaviors that wreak havoc on people's lives in ways that have ripple effects for generations.
In his wisdom, God forbids such practices. God is on the side of strong families and healthy, well-adjusted people. Adultery, abuse, bestiality, and sexual deviancy are the result of sin and brokenness. God's ways are always better.
Let's pray...Dear God, Forgive us for the mess we create as human beings. We lift up all those in our community who are currently suffering, who have experienced sexual trauma, abuse, adultery, and other forms of harm that have impacted their lives in terrible ways. We pray that we can be the kind of church that provides a safe and healing place for people who need it. Guide us, Lord. We don't even know where to start but we know that you will show us the way. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.