Closer to Cross

Freely Give  Freely you have received; freely give. Matthew 10:8. Think about the people I have brought into your life. They include members of your immediate and extended family, friends, and people at work or at school. It includes people you have a good relationship with and those with whom you have struggled. Are you showing kindness to them without conditions, as the Father and I have shown kindness to you? Do you extend mercy to those who deserve your scorn? Have you forgiven those who offended you, releasing them from your judgment? Do you work to meet the needs of others? Do you bless your enemies and pray for those who abused you? Have you shown compassion, even to people who have done nothing to deserve it? Do you extend never-ending patience to people the way My Father and I extend it to you? Do you reach out to others the way We reach out to you? Child, regardless of how you may have failed in these matters, I want you to follow Me by doing these things in the future. I...