The Core Ten. (5 min 54 sec)

Let's get straight to the heart of Jesus’ teachings, focusing on timeless truths that guide us toward greater love, peace, and unity. His teachings weren’t about creating a religion; they were about showing a way to live that transcends all differences. Imagine we’re down to only 10 teachings—the core ten that hold the essence of his message. Let’s break down these teachings so we can live them every day, like they’re the last pages left in the book.

1. “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39)

Meaning: True love sees no separation. When we recognize others as reflections of ourselves, we can only approach them with compassion. It’s not about loving only those who are easy to love; it’s about seeing everyone as worthy of love.

Practice: The next time someone challenges you, pause and imagine yourself in their shoes. Respond with kindness and a willingness to understand, rather than judge.

2. “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” (Matthew 7:1)

Meaning: Judgment keeps us stuck in the ego’s game of separation. When we judge, we reinforce the illusion of “otherness,” blocking our own peace.

Practice: When you catch yourself judging, try to see the person or situation through a lens of compassion. Ask, “What might they be experiencing?” This shift can open a doorway to understanding and peace.

3. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)

Meaning: Peacemaking isn’t just about avoiding conflict; it’s about embodying peace so deeply that it radiates outward.

Practice: The next time you disagree with someone, resist the urge to win or be right. Listen to understand. Meet them halfway by creating space for their experience too.

4. “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21)

Meaning: Your focus goes where you place value. If you’re attached to material things, your sense of self depends on them. But if you place value in love, kindness, and compassion, your life centers around these qualities.

Practice: Reflect on what you value each day. Are you focused on external achievements? Shift your focus to qualities like generosity and peace and make these your daily treasures.

5. “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” (Luke 6:31)

Meaning: This teaching reminds us that we’re all connected. Treating others as we wish to be treated strengthens our shared humanity.

Practice: Before responding to someone, ask yourself, “How would I feel if I were in their place?” Use this awareness to guide your response.

6. “Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” (Luke 6:37)

Meaning: Forgiveness frees us from the chains of resentment, bringing healing to ourselves more than anyone else.

Practice: Think of someone you haven’t fully forgiven — even if it’s yourself. Each day, say, “I choose to forgive.” Notice how the weight lifts over time, making space for peace.

7. “You cannot serve both God and money.” (Matthew 6:24)

Meaning: Attachment to material wealth distracts us from our inner truth. Fulfillment comes from aligning with love, not from chasing security.

Practice: Reflect on how much energy you spend on material things. Each day, practice gratitude for non-material gifts like relationships and health. This shifts your perspective.

8. “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’” (Matthew 5:37)

Meaning: Authenticity and integrity are foundational to inner peace. Be clear and truthful without trying to manipulate.

Practice: When making a commitment, pause and ask yourself, “Am I agreeing from a place of truth?” Practice honoring your true feelings in what you agree to.

9. “The kingdom of God is within you.” (Luke 17:21)

Meaning: The peace, love, and fulfillment we seek aren’t outside us; they’re already within. We only need to turn inward to experience our connection to the God.

Practice: Set aside a few minutes daily to connect with your breath. Remind yourself that peace is within, waiting to be noticed.

10. “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)

Meaning: This isn’t about condoning harm but about recognizing that responding to hate with hate only breeds suffering.

Practice: Think of someone who has hurt you. Instead of holding onto resentment, send them a thought of peace. You’re freeing yourself as much as you’re freeing them.

If these were the only teachings left, imagine the world we’d create by living these principles. These teachings aren’t about religion; they’re a call to live from love, kindness, and integrity. Practicing them daily aligns us with the essence of Jesus’ message and brings us closer to the truth already within us.

#thinkgod
I am sorry.
Please forgive me.
Thank you.
I love you.