Dear readers,
We are having some delightful weather for the month of October. I fear these warm temperatures are going to be fond memories very soon. Change will come, as it always does.
We live in a time when respect for life and property are almost outdated. There seems to be an epidemic of hate and violence, and it is not just in other parts of the world. This is a picture of the brokenness that is the result of the first man Adam and his disobeying God’s command concerning the tree in the Garden of Eden.
There are biblical commands and instructions regarding how we are to live and how we are to treat others and their property.
Exodus 20, verse 12 says, “Honor your father and your mother.” The next verse reads, “You shall not murder. This should be self-explanatory. God’s word also tells us if someone takes the life of another that person is to be put to death, not made out to be a victim.
Paul wrote these words, “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality… “Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position… “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:10-18). “Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21).
In His sermon on the mountain, Jesus got down to specifics: “Anyone who 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 practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:19).
“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ “But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment” (Matthew 5:21-22).
The bottom line is this; show respect for others, their lives and property. If we all do that, the world would be a better place for everyone.
Blessings,
Pastor Jerry
