“This great nation”

What makes a nation great?

Some say it is military might -- and there is some truth to that.

Some say it is economic wealth -- and there is some truth to that.

Some say it is a system of liberty -- and there is some truth to that.

Some say it is a system of care -- and there is some truth to that.

Today’s first reading (Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-8) tells us that it is ultimately the following of God’s commandments that makes a nation truly and fully great.

In your observance
of the commandments of the LORD, your God,
which I enjoin upon you,
you shall not add to what I command you
nor subtract from it.

Observe them carefully,
for thus will you give evidence
of your wisdom and intelligence to the nations,
who will hear of all these statutes and say,
‘This great nation is truly
a wise and intelligent people.’

For what great nation is there
that has gods so close to it
as the LORD, our God, is to us
whenever we call upon him?

Or what great nation has statutes and decrees
that are as just as this whole law
which I am setting before you today?