WHOOP

If you just love people who are like you - that isn't love.  That's loving you.  That isn't the Gospel of Jesus.  Even pagans love pagans.  You love people just like you?  Big whoop.

What should set followers of Christ apart is that they have love for their enemies.  Nobody does that.  Bears fans certainly don't.  But that's what should set them apart.

What Jesus says is:  'Be perfect as I am perfect.'  But He isn't talking about being flawless; He's saying, 'Grow up.  Be like your heavenly Father.'

Live like the family name is in you.

The imagery is of us as faithful sons and daughters - children in intimacy with God - adopted into His family like orphans off the street - out of abject poverty.  That's what God has done for you.  He's chased after you - He's adopted you - He's brought you close.  Now you're sons and daughters - in the family.

Now, be perfect - be mature - grow up - act like your Father - live like the family name is in you.

And be blessed.