The commandments show us how to live a fully human life

In brief

The commandments serve as a gift from God to help people live fully human lives in friendship with God and harmony with neighbors, according to Father Vincent Hawkswell. Writing for The B.C. Catholic, Hawkswell explains that the Decalogue is rooted in God's love and was given to the Israelites following their liberation from slavery.

Hawkswell notes that the commandments act as a guide to freedom from sin rather than a set of restrictive rules. He compares those who resent these laws to children who complain about parental rules, such as brushing teeth, without understanding how those actions protect health. Following the commandments allows people to enjoy creation as God intended.