A picture of a truly restored life

Nowhere in Scripture will you find, “Treat other people with kindness, unless their beliefs or actions differ from yours.” Implicit in Paul’s instructions was the understanding that we are to treat all people with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. We are, in fact, to love all people. That is the conviction at the root of Resurrection’s “Do Unto Others” campaign in this election year. But the need for it will not end with election day—in fact, it may become more important after that! John Wesley, Methodism’s founder, preached a sermon titled “A Catholic Spirit” at a time of religious controversy. He said, “Even though a difference in opinions or modes of worship may prevent an entire external union, yet need it prevent our union in affection? Though we cannot think alike, may we not love alike? May we not be of one heart, though we are not of one opinion? Without doubt, we may.” *

• Today’s reading took in the people you worship with, work with, rub elbows with, see at the market or pass as you walk the dog. God is counting on you to protect, support and bless all of them. This letter calls us to treat one another the same way God has treated us. It used this radical language: take off the “old self,” put on a “new self.” Can you see elements of your “old self” that you and God are in the process of “taking off”? Which of the beautiful “new self” qualities named in these verses do you see flourishing? Which ones do you want to ask God to grow in your life in the next six months? What is one concrete thing you can do this week that builds up another person? What principles can guide you in deciding when loving your neighbor is more valuable than winning an argument? Is there someone in your life with whom you do not think alike, yet you need to love alike?