Do To Others

Secret Weapon            

Matthew 7:12 (from the Sermon on the Mount)

Philippians 2:4 ESV

Luke 1:37 CEV

In our house growing up we were taught to do to others when you would want them to do to you (Matthew 7:12). I found out as an adult the same concept can be found in ancient texts from other religions. Followers of Jesus refer to it as the Golden Rule. Jesus said it in the Sermon on the Mount.

The first record of those words is found in Egyptian texts that date back to 2040 BCE. Those words are also found in Chinese philosophy, in Islam texts, and in secular philosophy.

The truth of Jesus’ words and other texts is clear. Treat other people like you would like them to treat you.

The Apostle Paul said something similar when he wrote to the church in Philippi. In Philippians 2:4 he wrote, “Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

It makes perfect sense. Humans need to be reminded we are a collective. I was also taught as a child that no man is an island and we need to think of others. If we do not think of others we will eventually become very very selfish.

When children are small and they are being selfish we might ask them, “Is this how you want to be treated?” Asking that question over and over again will eventually help them to realize if they strike someone they will probably retaliate.

That really meant something to me as I was always one of the smallest child in class. I was a “would be” target. I never outgrew that. Even as a septuagenarian a few years ago a woman who towered over me repeatedly poked me in both arms (which is simple assault). Instead of calling the police I chose to distance myself from her. I made sure she was never closer to me than seven feet. At the time I was shocked that an older adult would behave in such a manner.

Truth be told, not everyone was taught to think of others. That day I was reminded to be somewhat cautious (like I was as a child).

Life IS a crazy journey. Years ago when I was praying about a name for this blog I wanted it to be about the journey of life. Then I thought about what a crazy journey it has been. There have been ‘ups and downs and all arounds’. There were very happy days and very sad days but through it all Jesus has always been with me…in me.

Jesus has never failed me. Even when it hurt so much I could hardly breathe and I went to sleep crying and woke up crying, Jesus was right there holding me. Luke 1:37 says, “Nothing is impossible for God.” It was true for Mary, it was true for Elizabeth and it is true for us.

As followers of Jesus that is also our Secret Weapon.

In Jesus, Deborah

acrazyjourney.com