Rev Michael Anokye: 20TH FEBRUARY, TUESDAY
“YOU MUST LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR AS YOURSELF.”
PRAYER:
Dear Lord Jesus, I humbly come before you today to seek a deeper connection with you. I acknowledge that you are the sole source of wisdom, strength, and love. As I approach you during this Lenten season, I pray that you grant me the understanding of your will and your ways. Help me love my neighbour as myself and see the world through your eyes. Please guide me in sharing your love with every person that I meet. Amen.
READING:
Below are the short forms of the 10 Commandments given by God to Moses in Exodus 20 and Deuteronomy 5. Read the full text by clicking on the links.
1. You shall have no other gods before Me.
2. You shall not make idols.
3. You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain.
4. Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy.
5. Honour your father and your mother.
6. You shall not murder.
7. You shall not commit adultery.
8. You shall not steal.
9. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.
10. You shall not covet.
REFLECTION:
Leviticus 19:18 reads: “Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people but love your neighbour as yourself. I am the Lord.”
The 10 Commandments are boiled down to two simple instructions in Mark 12:30-31: (text below)
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.”
‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”
John Wesley believed that the Ten Commandments are inscribed on our hearts, giving us strength from God to help one another.
LET US PRAY:
Dear Father God, I pray that you guide me through your Word in making complex and unfamiliar decisions in my life. Strengthen my faith, especially when your Word challenges me. I know that life can be tough, but through your grace, I can love you, myself, and others as you commanded. Thank you for your love and guidance. Amen.
ACTION:
On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the best relationship with God and humans:
1. What number would you give to your relationship with God?
2. What number would you give to your relationship with your family and neighbours?
After considering these numbers, do you feel satisfied with them, or do you want to take steps to improve your relationships? If so, feel free to contact the leadership team at the Olive Tree Church. We are here to support you on your journey!
Pray for the grace to forgive those who have wronged you or hated you.