…no not just for some, but for everyone. It’s the only thing that there is just too little of.”   You may recognize that these are some of the words from a 1965 song written by Burt Bacharach and sung originally by Jackie DeShannon. 

My pastor several years ago, arranged a panel of clergy that was moderated by a local newscaster. The panel consisted of herself, a Lutheran pastor, a Rabbi, a Buddhist, a Hindu and a Baptist minister.  Questions were asked of each panelist and they were given a two-minute response time.  This “event” lasted two hours.  My husband and I sat in the front row and took notes for ourselves, learning so much.  Now, years later, my perception and notes reflect the bottom line and consensus at the end of all the “differences.” In full agreement, all panelists concluded what REALLY matters most is LOVE.  God, Allah, Buddha, Mohammad, the Bible, the Torah, the Qur’an, the panelists noted differences in paths, rules, interpretations BUT they totally agreed LOVE was most important for humankind to embrace and pour out to others and was a foundation in each of their religions.

Moses was given the Ten Commandments to share with the Israelites as they wandered through the desert to the Promised Land.  Rules to follow, commandments to honor.  When Jesus came, He gave us a new commandment (John 13:34), “…love one another.  Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” Self-sacrifice through the cross, a powerful gift! A love-filled heart has no room for hate.

What the world needs now is love, sweet love!  Please Lord, empower us to extend the love to ALL, no not just for some, but for everyone. May it be unconditional love, just as you love us unconditionally.

Jill