3. Romans 12 : 9
9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
DISSIMULATION – The act of dissembling; a hiding under a false appearance; a feigning; false pretension; hypocrisy. dissimulation may be simply concealment of the opinions, sentiments or purpose; but it includes also the assuming of a false or counterfeit appearance which conceals the real opinions or purpose. dissimulation among statesmen is sometimes regarded as a necessary vice, or as no vice at all.
ABHOR
1. To hate extremely, or with contempt; to lothe, detest or abominate.
CLEAVE
1. To stick; to adhere; to hold to.
3. To unite or be united closely in interest or affection; to adhere with strong attachment.
I am very grateful that we have the 1828 Webster’s Dictionary: These three words needed clarity this week, and having the right definitions has helped me to get more meaning from this verse, when coupled with what I am learning here. When I started getting a better handle on it, the verse felt transformed into a prayer:
Father, let my unselfed love for the world be without opinion, human goodness, or false appearances. Allow me to recognize the workings of animal magnetism, and to be instant in impersonally handling it, and to never be mesmerized to believe it has power, presence, or lasting effect. Help me to feel and understand my oneness with You and Your ideas, and to fully experience the beauty and wonder of your creation with joy and gratitude!
This led me to look at the entirety of Romans 12 differently.
I am so grateful for this church, these lessons, practitioner support, and the way that Christian Science brings such inspiration to the Bible, and to each day! Thank you!