Gospel: Matthew 7:6, 12-14
Do not give what is holy to the dogs, or throw your pearls before pigs. They might trample on them, and then turn on you and tear you to pieces.So, do to others whatever you would that others do to you: there, you have the law and the prophets.Enter through the narrow gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the road, that leads to destruction, and many go that way. How narrow is the gate that leads to life; and how rough, the road; few there are, who find it.
Reflections
“Do to others whatever you would that others do to you.”Jesus teaches his listeners to observe the Golden Rule. It is also taught by other great religions and cultures in the world. It should be acceptable to the disciples themselves. Jesus formulates it in a positive way. Others formulate it in a negative way, “Do not do unto others…” But they mean the same. The formulation of Jesus encourages his disciples to be proactive. They should take initiatives. Now they can only do this if they are aware of their own existential needs. More important is giving due respect to others. Whether one is in need or not, everyone deserves respect. The disciples should respect others as they realize the need to be respected.There is no easy way to practice the Golden Rule. The road to it is narrow and rough. It takes effort and skill to do it. The challenge is the same: to respect the other no matter what. That is also the path to gain respect from others.Do you show respect to others? Do others respect you because of your positive attitude towards them? People will talk positively about you when you do good and are respectful to them.
© Copyright Bible Diary 2019
