As we
consider Jesus’ teaching at the end of this year, we want to know which are
most important to Him. In this passage He tells us to…Love God and love your
neighbor as yourself. Ya gotta love you—and you’ve gotta love others. When we
were saying “Good-bye” to family after a big family gathering, I recently told
my husband’s cousin who is a stubborn old guy—pretty unlovable sort of
fellow—that I loved him. And his response was…“I love me, too.” I was glad to
hear that he loved himself. The usual response to a statement that someone
loves you is “I love you, too.” How can we love unlovable people? By God’s
grace and mercy? Or do we just see beyond their rough exterior and see the soft
heart longing to be loved and respected? Others may not actually want to accept
our love…and may try to make our lives miserable. When by grace we love others
the same way that we’d love Jesus Himself, then life is joyfully fulfilled. It’s
easy to find ways to love others—especially at this time of the year when
needs, and wants, are so abundantly advertised. Showing love to strangers may
involve a monetary commitment—but could involve giving of one’s time or talents—like
disciplining someone, teaching English as a second language, or delivering
Meals on Wheels. There are many ways to fulfill Jesus’ commandments to love
your neighbor as yourself. Do you love
and respect yourself as well?
RSVP:
Jesus is inviting us to get involved in other’s lives and love them—as we love
ourselves. How will you respond to his teaching today?
Prayer
~ Jesus, we love You with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. Show us how
we can creatively show Your love to others.
© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights
reserved.
All
scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise
noted.
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