Follow the Directions

Some of us do well with directions… and others not so much. My oldest grandson is a Lego master. He is only eight, but regularly builds Lego sets designed for those 18 and above. He loves Legos. The directions are pictures. They are clear and straightforward. If the Bible was written in that way, perhaps, it would be easier to obey the teachings of Jesus.

This helps, but pictures would be easier. 

We Love Rules

The truth is most of us love rules. They mark clearly defined boundaries for our lives. We want others to follow the rules as well. Have you ever sat behind someone at a traffic light with their right turn signal on. There is no sign saying, “Do not turn on red,” but they just sit there. Are you tempted to blow your car horn? Me too.

For those of us who like rules, we regret that Jesus did not give a simple set of directions. Do these twelve things and you will be fine. He mostly taught in parables, stories that we can use as a model for our lives. After his death and resurrection, he sent the Holy Spirit as a teacher, to guide us into the way of truth. This helps, but pictures would be easier. 

Two Rules

Jesus did give us the great command, which consolidates all the Old Testament rules into “love God” and “love your neighbor.”  Do these two things and you will fulfill the requirements of law. The Apostle Paul said it this way,  “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law” (Romans 13:8).

We are to love our spouses and children, our mothers and fathers, our extended family, those who live next to us and people with whom we work… even those who are difficult to love. Jesus even extended this expectation to our enemies. Yes, we are to love even our enemies. Wow, let that sink in a moment. 

Making It Simple

If you have hate in your heart, you are not obeying the commands of Jesus. If you have unforgiveness in your heart, then, forgive. Say the words, even if you don’t feel it. Send a text. Make a phone call. If you say the words, you will begin to feel it. Forgiving doesn’t mean you have to trust. If someone has a history of hurting you, it is likely best not to trust them. But, you can forgive. Even if they don’t reciprocate, it doesn’t negate the healing affect for you.

So, love. That is how we can determine if we are obeying the teachings of Jesus. I can’t give you a set of pictures that make it simple. However, I do have a question: How well did you love today?  

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35, NKJV

Prayer

Lord, may we teach our children to love as you love. Help us to model how to show love to each person encountered throughout their educational endeavors and in daily life. Amen.

Copyright © 2023 Chuck Locklear

Also, see Change Is Tough.