Thursday, September 3, 2026

Scripture

“The commandments, ‘You shall not commit adultery; You shall not murder; You shall not steal; You shall not covet’; and any other commandment, are summed up in this word, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Romans 13:9

Reflections

Christianity is really not all that complicated.

Some people try to make Christianity more difficult than it needs to be.  Some will constantly remind you that you need to try harder.  You need to stop sinning.  The “do’s”, “don’ts”, “shoulds”, “need tos” and “ought tos” can become a crushing burden.    Your best is never good enough.

Some insist you must understand the faith exactly as they do in order to be a good Christian.  If you don’t, there is something wrong with you.  You can get consumed arguing over details.  The life and joy of the good news of Jesus Christ can get sucked right out of you.  You may have right understanding, but without love, your faith is “dead right”.

When it comes to following in God’s ways, it’s about more than just rules.  It’s about more than having perfect understanding.  Jesus gives us some very simple guidance; love your neighbor as your love yourself.  He’s not telling us to love our neighbor more than we love ourselves.  He’s not telling us to love our neighbor less than we love ourselves.  He’s telling us to love our neighbor as we love ourselves.  It’s good to love yourself.  Love your neighbor as well.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you showing me your simple way of love through Christ Jesus.  Help me to follow in that same way this day.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Romans 13:8-14