There's a story Jesus tells in the Bible that finishes with a punchline that, in essence, whatever we have done, or not done to others, we have done or not done to him. I used to think that was symbolic - an allegory to prove a point - that he wants us to care for each other, even "the least". But I've come to realise it is something much more literal!
As a parent I have watched my children as they grew through the years. I am deeply invested in their lives. They are precious to me - and I have felt the pain of their struggles and the glow of their achievements! We are intimately connected at the heart, so their deep hurts and great joys are mine too!
God's heart too, connects with his children - much more deeply than mine does! Whatever I say or do to another, he feels! If I inflict wounds with my words or actions, his heart is wounded. If I lift someone up with something I say or do, his heart is lifted! It's not just a good moral story - we literally affect him with the things we say and do!
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