“Jesus replied, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. The second most important is similar: ‘Love your neighbor as much as you love yourself.’ ” – Matthew 22:37-39 (TLB)

This response was given when Jesus was asked by a lawyer in Matthew 22:36 (TLB), “Sir, which is the most important command in the laws of Moses?”

Jesus concluded his answer with, “All the other commandments and all the demands of the prophets stem from these two laws and are fulfilled if you obey them. Keep only these and you will find that you are obeying all the others.” – Matthew 22:40 (TLB)

Did you notice that regarding the commandments to love, there were NO exceptions given?  I did not see, “love if,” “love only,” “love except for,” “love especially,” or “love but.” He simply stated “love” as being unconditional, yet this has been the toughest struggle for many.  Nevertheless, it IS the key to unity.

I encourage each of you to love unconditionally because that is our call.

Last year, I took us on a journey that walked us through loving God, ourselves, and our neighbor. If you’d like a refresher (renew your mind) and/or want to share it with someone, please do! 🙂  Below, I’ve included direct links to each post, so it’s convenient to view in one place:

• Unity
• The Key to Unity
• Step #2 – Love Yourself:
  • What’s Beauty go to do with it?
  • Don’t Compare
  • What’s in Your Eye?
  • What are You Reflecting?
  • What are You Producing?
  • “Say” What?!
  • Think on It!
  • Check Yourself…
• Step #3 – Love Your Neighbor:
  • Now, Let’s Put It On!
  • Taking the “Love” Path
  • Who Is My Neighbor?
  • And Don’t Forget to…
  • Compassion
  • Kindness
  • Humility
  • Gentleness
  • Patience
  • Bear with Each Other
  • Forgive One Another

Upon re-reading the Unity entry in the series (created 1½ years ago), my prayer for us, our families, our communities, our nation, and the world, still remains the same. “May God who gives patience, steadiness, and encouragement help you to live in complete harmony with each other—each with the attitude of Christ toward the other. Amen!” – Romans 15:5 (TLB)

Thank you for your time. Be Blessed… LR Maddox
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