Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me. — Psalm 138:3

Mass readings: Esther C:12,14-16, 23-25 / Matthew 7:7-12 

The First Step 

We often think of the Gospel as providing the highest standards possible. If we can only live up to Jesus’ precepts, we tell ourselves, we will live a good life. Yet sometimes, we are called to go even further than Jesus suggests. In today’s Gospel, for example, Jesus says: “Do to others whatever you would have them do to you.” And we can manage that most days pretty well. But St. Benedict’s Rule suggests that all who present themselves “are to be welcomed as Christ.” 

Think about how even our small spheres of influence would change, if we treated everyone we encounter as we would Jesus Christ. Think about how your day might feel if everyone did the same for you. Sometimes the Gospel lesson is only the first step. 

Prayer: Jesus Christ, today, help me treat every single person as I would You.