“You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife.”  Deuteronomy 5:21

“This is love, that we walk according to his commandments.”  2 John 1:6

I don’t know many “Joneses“ but I seem to want what they have.  I have enough, but I want more because someone else has it – the latest fashion, gadget.  I want it even though it’s beyond my means.  On a recent talk radio program hosts asked listeners what they are willing to go into debt for … home, car, college of course.  One caller would assume debt to have the newest phone update.  I guess the “Joneses” have it. The covet list is longer than the 9th and 10th Commandments.  It’s way more than spouse, household staff, or livestock.  It includes land, resources, promotions, power and renown.  The list is alive and growing since Moses heard God’s commands on Mount Sinai.   

Jesus’ “New Commandment” list is short … love God and one another.  Someone else called in to that radio program and said she/he would assume debt to help a family member or friend experiencing an unexpected emergency.  So this is love – not craving what someone else has, but providing – even sacrificing – for what she/he needs.  

Love is more than passive – not doing:  not hurting or hating, not taking what belongs to others, not bullying or gossip.  Love is active – doing:  respecting, befriending, helping others keep up property and business, affirming others.  Jesus did not specify whom.  He said love “your neighbor”.  Jesus demonstrated such love to strangers, even those rather unlovable.  God has provided the channels for our hands to do His work, for our feet to walk according to his commandments.  God is with us, all the way.  

Loving God, We want to have the resources of the rich and fail to share enough with the poor.  You commanded us to love one another and lived a perfect example of compassion as a purpose.  Lead us … help us to follow.  Amen  

Verla Olson             

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