When we think of commandments, we behave as if we were Jewish, and not even Jews who know the whole Torah. We act as if there are only 10 commandments.
Today's first reading option from Paul is nothing but a long list of commandments
Let love be sincere;
hate what is evil,
hold on to what is good;
love one another with mutual affection;
anticipate one another in showing honor.
Do not grow slack in zeal,
be fervent in spirit,
serve the Lord.
Rejoice in hope,
endure in affliction,
persevere in prayer.
Contribute to the needs of the holy ones,
exercise hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you, bless and
do not curse them.
Rejoice with those who rejoice,
weep with those who weep.
Have the same regard for one another;
do not be haughty but
associate with the lowly;
do not be wise in your own estimation.
I count 21 imperatives in just this list. 17 things we should do, and 4 we should not do.
Perhaps a list we need to go back to on a regular basis.
