Despite being raised a Christian and familiar with the golden rule, it is still not instinctual to act that way.
As we grow up we’re thought to think in dichotomies of good/bad, us/them, helping me/hurting me.
American society can also be extremely competitive and passionate, vociferously so.
One area that immediately comes to mind is the team centered loyalty and it’s related rivalries, and the division it produces among strangers and even friends 🏈.
Starting with respect and love for others is not a sentiment that comes from the world, which would have us look at money, possessions, appearance, to determine worthiness. From the world that would say if they’re not with me they’re against me.
The spiritual journey helps us grow in understanding of the amazing person we are. When we understand how precious and valued we are by the Creator of the universe, the infinite reality of our self-worth can take root. From that point of great self-confidence, we can start to see that everybody else is just as precious and important.
Let us pray: Lord, open my heart to be like yours. Let my eyes see Christ in all I meet. Let me see myself as you see me, allow me to forgive myself of my failings and wounds, and allow me to apply that same mercy and love to others.