7th. January. 2022. Daily Devotion.
12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12
I came across this snippet of wisdom:
By our nature, we hear an insult directed against ourselves very loud, but one that we direct at another person, hardly at all; an oddity that most people must learn repeatedly. In fact, naive people might say something they think is helpful and therefore friendly — “I think you look better with long hair” to someone who has just gotten a haircut, or “that colour doesn’t flatter your skin tone” — and then be surprised that the recipient of the comment feels miffed, or even insulted and angry.
This page isn’t Ann Landers, but here is a hint for not insulting people: If you ever start a sentence with “Don’t take this wrong way” or “No insult intended” — stop talking. Bite your tongue. Don’t say it. You are about to insult them. Unless you simply want to be a passive-aggressive jerk, don’t give unsolicited criticism.
Jesus had in mind issues greater than childish insensitivity, though. The Golden Rule is connected to His statements on reciprocity of judgment and forgiveness: e.g., “if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:15) or “with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged” (Matthew 7:2).
Ancient Prayer
God uncreated, bless us who are made in your image. God untouchable, come to us in the Word made flesh. God unfathomable, reveal yourself in the wisdom of the Cross. God immortal, keep us in eternal life, through Christ our Lord. Amen. Angela of Foligno (1248-1309)
Modern Prayer
At your Last Supper, Lord, there was a place for all, a place for disciples who believed, as well as for one who doubted. There was a place for the power seekers and the powerless, for the ‘rock’ who would crumble when challenged and for one who valued you at thirty pieces of silver. There was enough room. When we are tempted to pick and choose our table companions, Lord, forgive our judgmental attitudes and help us to find room at life’s table for all, marvelling that even we ourselves are among the guests. Amen.
Let us pray to the Lord, who is our refuge and stronghold.
For the health and well-being of our nation, that all who are fearful and anxious
may be at peace and free from worry: Lord, hear us, Lord, graciously hear us.
For the isolated and housebound, that we may be alert to their needs, and care for them in their vulnerability: Lord, hear us, Lord, graciously hear us.
For our homes and families, our schools and young people, and all in any kind of need or distress: Lord, hear us, Lord, graciously hear us.
For a blessing on our local community, that our neighbourhoods may be places of trust and friendship, where all are known and cared for: Lord, hear us, Lord, graciously hear us. We commend ourselves, and all for whom we pray, to the mercy and protection of God. Merciful Father, accept these prayers for the sake of your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen. From a Church of England Covid-19 Liturgy.
