This week we bring our series on the Sermon on the Mount to a close as we explore Matthew chapter 7. The most memorable verse in this section is verse 12 – the so-called ‘golden rule’ – that reads ‘Do to others as you would have them do to you’. This simple and positive statement provides a summary of the sermon as a whole and links back to Jesus’ earlier calls to live out what he says.
This ‘rule’ is not actually a rule at all, but rather is about priorities and heart attitudes that lead onto actions. If our heart is concerned with status or wealth-seeking, or having power over others, or anger when our demands and wants are not met, then we will struggle to live in the way Jesus intends. However if we focus on generosity, compassion, justice and mercy then our lives will reflect the way of Jesus.
Lest we despair of ever reaching this high calling, it’s worth remembering that to have any hope of walking this road, we are reliant on God’s grace, God’s love and God’s empowering along the way. And the support and encouragement of fellow travellers. May this call both inspire us to action and also compel us to seek the help of God’s Spirit and one another.