Dear Faith Family,
I doubt we are unfamiliar with the "Golden Rule." Whether from family members, Sesame Street, or teachers, some version of "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" has found its way into our ears and expectations. This reciprocal ethic is espoused across generations as well as socioeconomic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. Nearly every people and place has an adaptation of this treasured precept. And while the acculturation of this "rule" gives credence to its universal truthfulness, it is also a source of our relational frustration.
Think about it. When floating out there on its own, the rule is, as Chaz mentioned on Sunday, a little egocentric. Detached from something other than "you" (or me!), how we relate (what we "do unto others") becomes preferential and dogmatic. "I" becomes the central evaluator of what is desired (i.e., "best") for not only myself but for others as well. And so, when "I" don't get what "I" want from "you," that means it is a "you" problem. Is there any wonder then why we are prone to judgmentalism and easily offended?!
But here is the thing: even though my translation of the Bible has the heading "The Golden Rule" above Matthew 7:12, dividing it from the verses before, Jesus grounds the valued wisdom in the foundation on which he has been building, keeping our preferences or perspectives from perpetuating the problems:
"So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets."
Jesus uses the same phrase here as he did in Matthew 5:17, connecting the "do unto others" to the revelations of our unease and restlessness which he's made us aware of between them, and closing the loop on his reoriented image of a "Blessed" life already and forever. A good and purposeful life experienced in greater depth as we grow in being present to the Presence in us and with others in the granular interactions of our day.
Our Sixth Practice is designed to ground "The Golden Rule" in these most intimate, ordinary, and often anxiety-riddled relations, so that we and those we share life with might truly flourish. So, as you take time this week to do the work to be a differentiated presence, may you come to see,
"how much more will your Father who is in heaven
give good things to those who ask him!"
(Matthew 7:11)
Love you, faith family!