So they asked Him, “Which command in the law is the greatest?” “He responded to him, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and most important command. The second is like it: Love our neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets depend on these two commands.” Matthew 22:37-40
I get along with most if my neighbors! I greet them, stop to talk when we happen to pass on the street and I even mow part of the lady’s yard next door when I am mowing my own! But then … there’s Mr. Mean Man! He is my neighbor directly across the street. We have been in our house going on 5 years and he has NEVER responded to a greeting or or gesture. Well, maybe once, but then again he could have been scratching his head. I was on a run yesterday and encountered him walking his dogs and as we passed, he made extra effort to avoid eye contact or any acknowledgement of me. I felt justified in my distaste for him and in not making any effort to greet him this time! But, God! The scripture above doesn’t give me the freedom or justification to pick and choose! But, we may be moving soon, so can’t I ignore this for a bit? No! So, Mr. Mean Man Should get ready! I have a directive to love him … whether he likes it or not!!! To be continued!
Barnabas Man 