Spending time with the family during these recent school holidays reminded me of just how important it is to never stop making an effort when it comes to maintaining our relationships. We put so much effort into building them but often we neglect to put just as much effort into maintaining them.
I was also reminded how easily selfishness can creep into our relationships and just how destructive selfishness can be to our relationships. When I look at the disciples of Jesus and how they engaged with one another when can easily recognize our tendency to be selfish in our relationships. Do you remember conversations they had about who must sit where; about who is the greatest; about what their reward will be; and when Jesus is going to give them back their kingdom by delivering them from the Romans.
Jesus, in sharp contrast, always acted in a selfless manner in all His relationships. You read the gospel stories and we see Jesus always ready to listen; to heal; to help. Never acting in a selfish manner in any of His relationships.
I also notice that because of His selfless behavior it seems bring out the best in others. Because He acts in a selfless manner it forces the other person to change how they relate to Him – it makes them to be better people.
So, if you want to bring out the best in your husband, wife or kids, and strengthen your relationships why not follow Jesus’ example and resolve to never stop making the effort to act selflessly and see the miracle that will take place in your relationships.
