“This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ Upon these two commandments hang the whole Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 22:38-40).
Lord, the law reflections Your character. Born in this age, we learn who we are to love and who are to hate. We segregate and divide. You have called for us to see all people as Your creation, equally loved by You, and as our neighbor. This is a clear distinction between You and how this world is doing things. Care for the other as I want to be cared for. Consider the well-being of all equally.
I hear these words and the first part is easier. I want to love You, Lord. But there are some neighbors I do not want to love. Lead me beyond myself so that I learn how to love others the way You would have me love them. Teach me what all of this means, taking me beyond my inclination to stop thinking I am where I need to be. Take me to where You know I need to be.
Lord Jesus, You know what all of this means. You know what it means for me. Lead me through all that needs to happen so that I learn how to love as You love. Guide me in Your goodness and mercy to be gracious and merciful to others. Teach me how to love You, Lord. Help me to see others as those who have been created in Your image, and to love all others, reflecting Your love for me. Amen.
