- Joined
- Oct 26, 2007
- Messages
- 12,539
For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Matthew 5:46-47 ESV
Jesus asked His followers to learn from His example and to reply on God’s presence in their lives to help them love people who are offensive, mean, and even hostile. This call to love enemies recognizes that the source of love is beyond what they can see or think on their own.
Consider the source of love for people who love you, take care of you, and support you. The relationship itself helps to generate the love. It is reciprocated between two people. Even the most corrupt or self-serving people find people around them to share their love and affection. They recognize the need for relationships and a support network. There is nothing wrong with love on these terms, but it doesn’t amount to the higher calling that Jesus modeled.
As you encounter people who are hostile or offensive toward you, Jesus asks you to rely on His love and mercy to get by. You can’t rely on a reciprocal relationship here. Without God’s support, love will be all but impossible.
Prayer: Jesus, help me to love others with the grace and mercy You have showed to all.
Jesus asked His followers to learn from His example and to reply on God’s presence in their lives to help them love people who are offensive, mean, and even hostile. This call to love enemies recognizes that the source of love is beyond what they can see or think on their own.
Consider the source of love for people who love you, take care of you, and support you. The relationship itself helps to generate the love. It is reciprocated between two people. Even the most corrupt or self-serving people find people around them to share their love and affection. They recognize the need for relationships and a support network. There is nothing wrong with love on these terms, but it doesn’t amount to the higher calling that Jesus modeled.
As you encounter people who are hostile or offensive toward you, Jesus asks you to rely on His love and mercy to get by. You can’t rely on a reciprocal relationship here. Without God’s support, love will be all but impossible.
Prayer: Jesus, help me to love others with the grace and mercy You have showed to all.
