The Golden Rule – Reflection on Matthew 5:17-19
We must carefully interpret the law that God has breathed into Scripture. While we try to avoid what man creates outside of the Spirit’s inspiration, it is challenging. Consider the critical thought of Jesus on the commandments throughout the Gospels about loving God and neighbor. In Matthew 7:12, Jesus states: “In everything, do to others as you would have them do to you,” which we know as the Golden Rule. Keeping this thought in our hearts and minds will surface when we help others in their journey toward heaven. We can be great here on earth by following Christ’s example of love, humility, respect, forgiveness, compassion, mercy, and peace.
Jesus Discourses with His Disciples by James Tissot.
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Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Matthew 5:17-19 – Scripture*
The Law and the Prophets
17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. 18 For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. 19 Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Matthew 5:17-19 Reflection – The Golden Rule.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Matthew 5
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Primary Lectio Divina word or phrase: The Golden Rule
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Discussion group on St. John of the Cross.