It could be something that happened at work, or a misunderstanding with your spouse. Perhaps it had something to do with politics, or the recklessness of a driver in another car. Maybe, heaven forbid, it was something that happened at church.
Sometimes you have to take action to rectify the situation. Other times you merely need to vent. A reassuring ear can do wonders to get something off of your chest.
Today’s reading is Matthew 22:34-40. Jesus is talking to the Sadducees (a Jewish sect that had merged many Greek ideas into their culture). He tells them to “Love the Lord your God with all your soul and all your mind” and to “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Loving your neighbor is not always easy. Let’s face it, we can’t always be pleasant. There are days when we wake up on the wrong side of the bed. Other days we are sure our neighbor woke up on the wrong side.
Yet, we are to love them.
Being hospitable to someone is a sign of Christian love. A smile and some kind words, the very basics, are a great start. But there are times when that is not enough.
Your neighbor might have something that is bugging them.
They are in no position to respond, or appreciate your hospitality. They have something else that needs to be dealt with.
What do you do? If you are like me, you might want to walk away. But that wouldn’t show much love. Rather, you listen. Listen to what is bugging them. Let them get whatever it is off their chest. Maybe even give their emotion a name.
They will know you care, maybe even love them.
Your hospitality and your love will be understood and appreciated.
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