PRIORITIES
Imagine you have just moved into a new apartment. What would you unpack first? I doubt it would be the Christmas tree ornaments or the shoe polish or the bridesmaid’s dress you wore in your sister’s wedding a decade (You actually moved that...just sayin.’) You would prioritize what you unpack and get the most important things first.
In Matthew 6:33, Jesus talks about the most important things, “Seek first the kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Then He goes on all through the gospels to live his life as an example by loving God and loving people.
This was no syrupy, sappy love. This love went way beyond expectations to care for those in need. This love told the truth, never mind the consequences. This love refused to be manipulated. This love took our Lord into uncomfortable situations, and it created unlikely relationships.
What’s more, Jesus’ love was by no means cheap. In the end, he paid the ultimate price, and unimaginable price. Jesus’ love—his love for you and me—cost Him His life.
Our Savior died for the times we focus on ourselves rather than on Him. He died because we choose to chase after second, third and even fourth priorities. He died for our cowardice I “being nice” when real love would “be honest.” He died for the times we’ve done what was convenient rather than what was best for the person.
And now Jesus calls us—the forgiven—into His own first-things-first lifestyle. We may feel timid about stepping out into that kind of risky, self-giving love. But we know we can do it, knowing we will never walk alone. He walks right beside us, filling us with peace and leading the way.
We can lay aside our worries about every detail, right down to what we will eat or drink or wear. He promises, “All these things will be given as well” (Matthew 6:33). It’s and all-inclusive promise by our ever-loving Lord!