Scripture
“Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV)

There’s a reason Jesus frames these as commandments one and two in a list of ten. If we aren’t deeply rooted in our love for God first, how could we possibly move on to love anyone else with a fraction of the unconditional love He showers upon us? Believe in the love God has for you. Ground yourself in that truth and let it shape you into a person who loves others.

The Bible doesn’t say:

“Love your neighbor because they’re exactly like you.”

“Love your neighbor when you feel like it.”

We’re absolutely undeserving of God’s love, yet we know the lengths He went to prove He cares deeply for us. He sent His only Son to take on our pain, sins and regrets. Talk about sacrificing something of great cost. When you can confidently stand firm in God’s love for you, spread it around to others. It won’t always come easily. Jesus didn’t request this with a “pretty please.” Loving our neighbors near and far, regardless of our differences, is what we’re commanded to do. 

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