Matthew 7:12 (NIV)
12 So in everything, do to others what you would have
them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
The Lord Jesus presses upon us that righteousness towards
men is an essential branch of true religion, and that religion towards God is
an essential branch of universal righteousness. Romans 12:10 tells us, ‘Be
devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.’
The Italians have a beautiful expression for love: ti
voglio bene. Though commonly translated as "I love you," [the phrase]
more literally means "I wish you good" or "I want what is good
for you."
This simple phrase reminds us that true love is not
primarily about what good feelings may be stirring within me. Even less is it
about what I can get out of a relationship for myself. The fullness of love is
looking outward toward my beloved and seeking what is best for that person, not
just what is good for me. [Adapted from Edward Sri, Men, Women and the Mystery
of Love (Servant Books, 2007), page 55]
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down
his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and
sisters. If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in
need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or
speech but with actions and in truth. (1 John 3:17-18)
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