One of my favorite Christmas gifts was a sign I received a few years ago from my husband. It was the type of gift you open and are so happy that you tear up a little. What made it special was partially because I really wanted it but mostly because I mentioned it to my husband once and he made a point to tuck that information away and surprise me.
The gift was a metal sign, a simple brushed steel square with the six words laser cut out of it:
Act Justly…Love Mercy…Walk Humbly
These words come from Micah 6:8 and this is a verse that has been on my mind a lot lately. Have you ever asked God, “What do you want from me?” I have and this verse helps to answer that question.
But He’s already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It’s quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor (Act Justly), be compassionate and loyal in your love (Love Mercy), and don’t take yourself too seriously – take God seriously (Walk Humbly). Micah 6:8
Ok, so that is pretty straight forward. But why does it still seem hard sometimes? Jesus makes it even simpler when he broke it down when talking to the Pharisees. Those guys really tried to make things complicated, but Jesus set them straight.
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:36 – 39
So when we ask God, “What do you want from me?” It seems the answer is simply:
LOVE GOD
LOVE OTHERS
Now that we have the what, the big question is how? What does it look like to do this in real life? As I go through my day, that part is not always so easy. I think I love God, but do I? Do I invest the level of commitment that a loving relationship deserves? I love people but sometimes they are incredibly frustrating. Really God do you mean everyone?
As usual, I have more questions than answers! I managed to take what Jesus simplified and made it complicated like the Pharisees. Great! Not really who I want to be like. I am not a bible scholar but I do want to take some time to examine what these verses mean and how I can apply them in real life but that is for another post.
I would love to hear from you! How do you live this out in your daily life?
Lord, thank you that we can ask questions! I am trying and I am learning. Thankfully you extend grace and love at every step. Amen.
Debbie
