Monday, October 30, 2023
Monday, October 30, 2023:
Pause. Pray. Read. Be still. Write. Pray. Go about your day or turn in for the night.
Read: James 2:8-13
James follows his warning against showing partiality to some over others by restating the Royal Rule of Jesus: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus never played favorites. He reached out to all people with unconditional love and mercy. In fact, he spent much of his time looking for and in conversation with the lost, the last or marginalized, and the least likely.
Be still and Reflect: What kind of “neighbors” is it easy for you love as yourself? Which ones is it difficult for you to love as yourself?
Pray: Lord Jesus, Today, give me your heart for your people. Help me to avoid the trap of playing favorites or judging others by their looks, age, race, socioeconomic status, position, or politics. Instead, help me to embrace diversity and to see others as you see them. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, enable me to love in a way that reflects your heart even for those who make me uncomfortable. Amen.