Do Unto Others

Read: Matthew 7:7-12

A recent news story from Spain gives great example to what Jesus encourages in Matthew 7:12 when he says, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”  World magazine reports the story in this way…

“Just moments before crossing the finish line in third place, British triathlete James Teagle missed a turn and bumped into a metal barrier.  Meanwhile, Spanish triathlete Diego Mentrida easily passed him to gain third place at the Santander Triathlon held in Spain on September 13.  But instead of crossing the finish line, Mentrida stopped short and allowed Teagle to retake his position and finish third.  The pair shook hands just before Teagle crossed the line.  After the race, Mentrida said the British athlete deserved the finish. “This is something my parents and my club taught me since I was a child,” Mentrida later said on Instagram.  “In my view it should be a normal thing to do.”  Race organizers gave Mentrida an honorary third prize of nearly $350 although he technically finished fourth.”

This act of care, sportsmanship, and respect for another is the basis of what Jesus was doing and teaching about throughout the Gospels.  He encourages us to look past ourselves and look to others.  He encourages us to ask how we would want to be treated in difficult, trying, and unfortunate situations and then respond in kind to others.  Hopefully this story can encourage all of us to put others before ourselves and may it become the normal thing to do.

Make it Personal:  This time of Christmas is often a time of giving and gratitude.  During this season be on the lookout for those in need of your encouragement and help.  Follow the ways of Jesus and do unto others as his life and example encourages us to do.

Have a great week, Glen Rhodes