Matthew 5:46-48
If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:46-48 (NIV)
There is an old story about two politicians who meet on a narrow path. The two are at odds with each other over several issues, and the first says to the other, “I never step aside for an idiot!” The second politician replied, “I always do!” and stepped aside. While this is somewhat humorous, who showed love for their enemy? Apparently, neither of them, which is exactly what Jesus is trying to teach us not to do.
This passage is from the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus taught the large crowds from a mountainside. Love your enemies and pray for them, Jesus says. God the Father treats us all the same with sunshine and rain, and He does not discriminate according to our good deeds or evil deeds. Are not our “enemies” God’s children as well? Maybe a few prayers for them would help change our viewpoints of them as well as open them to the Holy Spirit. After all, aren’t we supposed to bring God’s word to the ungodly (or seemingly our enemies)? Jesus tells us to greet all, not just our friends, and in this way we open ourselves to relationships that are outside of our comfort zone. When we exclude those who are our enemies, what chance do they have of learning of Jesus and His salvation from us? How will they ever feel the community of Christ if we exclude them? Pray for those who persecute you. Be different than those who only love those who love them. In this way, we show the perfect love of God and reflect His will that all should be saved. We are all God’s children and we can show that in our daily lives. It’s not always easy, but be perfect! Thanks be to God for His perfection, and forgiveness when we are not!
Questions for Reflection:
- Who are your enemies? Are they real or perceived?
- Do your daily prayers include them?
Prayer:
Dear Lord, we know we are to be perfect in Your sight, and hold no grudges or hate for those who oppose us. Help us treat all like Your children, and pray for those who seem to be our enemies. Show us how to reflect Your love every day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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