The most compelling task of our Christian commitment is that we do unto others as we would have them do unto us. In no way can we escape the Biblical mandate to treat others with respect. We are not offered the option of retaliation, even when we are mistreated. We are admonished to turn the other cheek and go the second mile. In so doing, we leave the impression that love and not hate is the dominant force in our lives. It’s not easy being kind and considerate in a world which equates meekness with weakness. It’s not profitable to let ethics and morality control our aggressive ambitions. Of course, Jesus is our model example of self-giving love but who wants to be a martyr? We are not conditioned for the kinds of sacrifices which our Lord demands.
We love our neighbor not as we love ourselves. We love our neighbor only in ways which are convenient and non-demanding. We are prone to fulfill the obligation of our own needs before we make any serious commitment to others. The selfish satisfaction of conquering the competition inhibits our willingness to let anyone get ahead of us.
Somehow, the key that unlocks our desire to help others is discovered in the context of our needs. The kindness and love we require is the kindness and love we must give. Within the framework of our own personal needs is the best clue as to how we can reach out helpfully to others.We do not need a course in compassion nearly as much as we need to learn to treat others in the way we would like to be treated.
The best commentary on how we are doing is a sense of joy which comes from our helpfulness. We are created for kindness and not contention. Our needs are best met as we proceed to meet the needs of others. To know ourselves is to know our neighbor. To know our neighbor is to express love in ways we wished to be loved. We are never nearer God than when we love those whom He loves. By giving us the power to bless others, God has equipped us to be neighborly.
