Matthew 7:12

Treat other people exactly as you would like to be treated by them – this is the essence of all true religion.

Most of us recognize this text in its “vernacular clothes”.  However, the language that is most familiar is, Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.  In the translation noted above (J.B. Phillips), the last line is less well-known.  What does the phrase, this is the essence of all true religion, communicate?  In the holy books of the world’s five largest religions (i.e., Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Sikhism and Hinduism), there is a statement consistent with this commandment, inviting adherents to treat others well.  What if the world’s faithful treated everyone the way they wanted to be treated?  What if we, as Christians, did so?  What if we who are connected to Community Church treat everyone we encounter this week the way we want to be treated?  I believe God would be pleased, and by our actions, praised.  Want to try with me?  Let us go forth and do likewise.