It is a peculiar situation. A slave, who is set free, refuses to go away. He insists that he wants to continue as a slave for life. If he does not want to go free, he must be with the approval of the community and elders, the man is brought to the door of the Master. The Master shall bore his ear, with an awl and he shall be a slave forever. (Exodus 21:1-6) This is the kind of love and service expected from a disciple of the Lord.
Contract to covenant: A slave served either out of obligation or compulsion. A slave because of war However, the attitude and behaviour of the master brings a change in the slave. God instructed The Nation of Israel, to treat those who become slaves with generosity, and they can serve only for six years. They suffered as slaves and should not ill-treat the slaves. (Deuteronomy 15:12-17) Hence, righteous masters would get the service of slaves for a life-long term. Then the six-year contract is changed into a covenant voluntarily by the slave. This is how a disciple must take up the cross and follow the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Servant: The Lord made Himself as a servant or slave. (Philippians 2: 7) The Son of God loved the Father and became obedient unto death. He died, was buried, and rose again for the sake of redeeming humanity. First, like the servant was pierced with an awl, the Savior was pierced with the nails. Second, the blood on the doors was similar to that of Passover, when the blood of the lamb was applied to doors and lintels. (Exodus 12:21-23) Even the last drop of blood of the savior was shed on the Calvary hill. (John 19:34) Third, the slave had a permanent hole and a scar. After the resurrection, the Lord showed his scars to Thomas, inviting him to touch and see. (John 20:24-27) In Heaven, the Lord is described as the Lamb was slain, meaning with scars. (Revelation 5:6)
Do I understand the New Covenant of love?