5.16.23 - Psalm 19:9b
The first step of love can feel daunting and vulnerable. Yet, it's first steps that change the world around us, what's your move today?
The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous.
I’ll be honest, when I first read this my brain made a record scratching noise - an internal hold up, wait a minute!
I think it’s easy to get human interpretation confused with God’s law.
For the longest time the interpretation of God’s decrees through the eyes of mostly men harmed me and people I loved.
Women cannot preach.
Women cannot lead.
It felt minimizing to follow God’s laws - shrinking my voice, my leadership, and my story.
It has been redeeming to find the one decree that we’re called to above all else -- love one another.
Jesus didn’t seem to get so caught up in the decrees that are divisive today. I find comfort in turning to Jesus and how he lived.
God calls us to love one another and Jesus gives us a roadmap.
This decree doesn't ask us to shrink. Rather to be bold in our love, and with our gifts.
Perhaps you live out your love for one another through storytelling or song.
Perhaps you live out God’s love through faithfulness or friendliness to a neighbor - the possibilities are endless.
All it takes is one first step, what will yours look like today?
-- Jeanette Rojas