23 Now swear to me here before God that you will not deal falsely with me or my children or my descendants. Show to me and the country where you are living as an alien the same kindness I have shown to you.”
This seems like such a basic part of human culture, doesn’t it! And yet within a few verses of this statement, the person making the statement does not carry it out for himself. Treating people the way we want to be treated is a very old concept. In fact, it is God’s concept in the first place. Care and concern for others and their families is a basic human kindness. And yet sin has marred even this most basic understanding of human relationships. Treating others as we want to be treated makes sense. And yet how many times have we violated this rule in order to get our own needs met? We want the standard maintained by those who deal with us, but we are often all too willing to take advantage of someone else ourselves. This is the story of humankind and of sin. We know the right thing to do, but we often don’t do the right thing! Justice is demonstrated when we treat others the way we want to be treated. When we forgive, we are showing the actions that we know we will need in the future. In fact, we are reflecting the character of God. So today, as you go about your business, treat others as you want to be treated. Bend over backwards to meet their need, just like you want them to meet your need. Reflect God’s character of forgiveness in your actions. Show the deep loving kindness that God shows to us. Become a conduit through which God can love the world.
The Arnold Journey 