During this week I am focusing on six different teachings of Jesus that have the potential to change your whole life and lifestyle. Although many of you will have heard these teachings before, I would challenge you during this week to ask yourself if you have really put these teachings into practice in your life - and where you have not then do something about it. Matthew 11:29-30 says: "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
God never asks of us anything that is too much - and whatever He asks He will give us the strength to fulfil.
Today's Teaching: "Two Great Commandments"
We are all undoubtedly aware of the two great commandments - to love God with everything you have and are, and to love your neighbour as yourself. These words are so easy to say that often times when it comes to preach on this subject I wonder what I might put forward that is new. The problem is that no matter how simple it may sound it is profound to a depth that we cannot even begin to comprehend. Jesus said: "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." In a few short words Jesus has taken this concept of love and moved it from some sentimental or mushy thing to a place where the rubber hits the road - so to speak. When the rich young ruler came to Jesus to ask what he must do to inherit eternal life Jesus mentioned a number of the commandments to him - Do not commit adultery, do not commit murder, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honour your father and mother. The youth was content with himself and answered that he had done all these things. Then Jesus got down to the meat of the matter - go sell all you have and give to the poor and come follow me. It was too much for the young man to conceive of doing. Yet to love God and to love your neighbour is in fact to give up your life for them. Are you ready to do that? This is what God requires of you!
I believe that when we get that close in relationship with Jesus, we are also looking inward to release all fears, to look at the gift that we are in creation and to love in a way that only He can teach us through the Holy Spirit.
ReplyDeleteThe more I am in relationship with my wonderful husband, watching my grown children and grandchildren, love release freedom and joy. I am learning more to step back, watch and listen as life unfolds its tapestry. Then I can extend my hand of LOVE in a way that becomes this gift from God.
Have a wonderful day, blessings