Matthew 7:12 (Words of Jesus) “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”
“Do unto others. . . .” “Do unto others. . . .” Over and over these words have been playing in a loop in my head in recent days and months. And I have been realizing that following this command of Jesus’ is often costly, financially and in terms of hard work.
A week ago, while the packers were busy in other parts of the house, I was wiping out cabinets and drawers, cleaning the microwave, polishing countertops, sweeping and mopping because I want to leave the house for the new owners like I hope someone is leaving the house that Steve and I will be moving into. If they don’t, I’ll just clean it, too. After all, I’m not accountable for THEIR actions, but as a Christ follower, I am accountable to Him for my actions. Somehow it mattered to me to have the house better than just move-in-ready. When the neighbors come around and mention “the Pearsons who used to live here,” I want so much for the new owners to already have a positive impression of us based on the condition of the house and yard. It’s well worth the sweat and energy expended.
The new owners submitted a list of repairs that they wanted us to make. We have checked everything off of that list, but we knew of a few others things that deserved attention. Most of these items have cost money. Let me just say it — moving isn’t cheap. But again, wouldn’t we want the owners where we’re moving to have the appliances, plumbing, electrical wiring and air conditioning in good working order? Well then, that’s what we want for the people moving into our present house.
Jesus told us to treat people the way we want to be treated. His words go WAY beyond the condition of our homes. I believe He was also talking about respect, honesty, courtesy and kindness. When I listen to the nightly news, I’m afraid I don’t see much evidence of people living by Jesus’ words. But wouldn’t we ALL be better off if we did?
Anyway, that’s just something I was convicted about recently. I’d love to hear how God has been pricking your heart.
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