"Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs." -- Proverbs 10:12

When there is division in our families and in our communities, and when venomous words are being thrown at one another, it's time we check ourselves and examine our hearts.  When you think of others, what is the primary nature of the thoughts?   When you think of "that" person, does your mind go to negative thoughts, and do you feel anger welling up in you?  Or do you consider that person in a loving, understanding way?  Lincoln once said that the best way to get rid of an enemy is to make them your friend.  When we consider others in a way that seeks to lift up, encourage, and support, we find that our relationships dramatically improve.  However, when we use up mental, emotional, and spiritual energy contemplating negative things about them, hate stirs up in our hearts, and we bring destruction to a web of relationships around us.  Exercise your capacity to love.  It's a better way.

Readings:  Leviticus 14:1-57; Mark 6:30-56; Psalm 40:1-10; Proverbs 10:11-12