This week, our scripture quote comes from one of the New Testament books other than the gospels. It is still a quote from Jesus, but comes through one of Paul’s early letters from the book of Acts.

At the heart of what it means to be a Christian is this mantra: deny yourself and follow.

This does not mean that we must give up self-care or every other thing in our lives. What it does mean, however, is that it is our job to put others first.

Because that is what Jesus did. It’s what he taught. It’s what he died for.

Christ asks us to take the golden rule to a whole new level. Rather than simply treating others as we would want to be treated, we are to consider life from their shoes, their walks, their experiences. We are to offer aid not as a condescension from our abundance, but as fellow fallen sinners on God’s long road.

It really is quite simple: it’s not about us.

That is what Christ asks us to remember when considering everything we feel, think, say, and do. Not ourselves. But how will this effect my neighbor. All of my neighbors.

For Jesus has told us that whatever we do to another, especially those considered the least, we are doing to him. We are doing to God.

So give your love, your resources, your time away. That is what Christ asks of you and God calls you to do. Each and every one of us.