Do unto others…

Over the past couple of years our nation has become divided. Not just one division but divided on any number of things. Political views, views on race, gender, sexual preferences, vaccinate or don’t, wear masks or don’t, and the list goes on and on. As concerning as this is, there’s something more disturbing that’s been happening. Those who call themselves Christians being hateful not just to those outside of Christianity but also to each other. Those who bear the name of Christ talking trash about whatever they are against and those who follow it. Listen, I’m not innocent here. I’ve caught myself saying things that should have stayed unsaid. We are supposed to be representing Christ. His ambassadors. How can we expect the world to change if we are acting like the world. Don’t like what I’m saying? Well Luke recorded some of Jesus words in chapter 6:27-36. It’s a lot so I won’t put it all here but please look it up and read it. I’ll hit a couple of the highlights. 27 love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. 31 do to others as you would have them do to you. (I remember that one well because when I was a kid, I hurt someone’s feelings and my Dad made me write it 2000 times neatly. )32 If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that!
All these words that Jesus spoke were reminders to those of us that claim to belong to him to act according to his example! He did not agree with the political system of his day but he didn’t trash talk it or run them down. He proved his power and strength by loving people. Yes even his enemies. And he has enemies! He didn’t just say these words, he lived them. While nailed to the cross in unimaginable pain, he prayed for his enemies and said, “ Father forgive them for they no not what they do.” So today, I remind myself and those of you who are my brothers and sisters in Christ, to live as Jesus lived. Love as Jesus loved. No it’s not easy, but listen to the end result..35 But love your enemies, do good to them, lend to them without expecting anything back. Then your reward will be great and you will be the children of the Most High because he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked!!!
Dear Father, help us to follow your example. Help us to be kind to those who oppose us and love those who hate us!!
Have a great day.