My story for this Sunday was on the Platinum Rule.  Mary loved strawberries, but her friend John was allergic to strawberries.  They were bringing snacks for a trip, and strawberries were in season, and were absolutely delicious.  Mary decided to bring grapes, because takig something John could eat was more important to her than taking what she loved.  The Platinum Rule is loving our neighbour as they need to be loved, not treating someone as we want to be treated.  My message was as follows. 

Neighbours July 14, 2013; Luke 10:25-37

If you were able to start a new village, what would be the first rule for the new colonists?

Of course, most would say "Love your neighbour".

But remember some people hate themselves.

What would your first rule be?

This is the gratest commandment according to Matthew - You shall love the Lord Your God with all you heart, and with all your soul and with all your mind. You shall love your neighbour as yourself

I have been thinking about this and I wonder if the crux in this is loving your self in all that you do and how you live. If you don't like yourself, how can you love God. And if you don't like yourself, how can you be a good neighbour?