Day 25

Paul is telling us that love is the fulfillment of the law. The teachings of Jesus encourage us to shift our thinking around the commandments in recognition that the fulfillment of the law is to do no harm to those around us, to our neighbor. Love of neighbor is material. Love is an action word. If to love our neighbor is the fulfillment of the law, is how we seek the kingdom here on earth; what does love look like? How might Jesus’ teachings guide us in our daily steps and interactions so that we might be the light? It is through active love for one another that we recognize that Jesus unified everything on earth and in the heavens. It is the same Greek work for unify – to bring into unity and harmony – that is used when Paul states that all of the other commandments are unified, are summed up in the word “you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” To allow our neighbor to hunger, to hoard the blessings that God has placed in our lives, is violence, is to do harm. We fulfill the law, we seek completion in the law, through love of neighbor.

PRAYER

Creator God, we come to you in gratitude for this day, this breath, this moment. As we find comfort in your unending love for us, remind us and guide us as we seek to love our neighbor, to live out your command and to seek completeness in your kingdom. Guide us to act as your hands and feet, loving those with whom we interact each day. Strengthen us to persist when challenged by the actions of others. Give us the wisdom and the faith to love out loud, to love as Christ, to be a witness to your unending love through each of our interactions with our neighbor. In the name of your loving Son, we pray. Amen.

JOURNAL REFLECTION

How can you actively show love to your neighbor today? Reflect on ways you might bring unity, meet needs, or share your blessings in your everyday interactions.