May 26th - Luke 6:27-28;32
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Luke 6:27-28;32
I could be wrong, but I suspect that most of us will struggle to identify any enemies. But I suspect that most of us can readily come up with a list of people whom we find difficult or awkward.
Jesus very strong command means not just putting up with these people, but choosing to love them. Loving will involve us in deliberately going out of our way to help and encourage them. It will cause us to pray regularly for them, so that we know how to bring blessings into their lives.
And if they turn into out-and-out enemies, bent on destroying us, we need to pray harder, and continue to show them love. You may need a moment to gulp, because this is really tough teaching!
In practical detail, Jesus spelt out what his command involved, so that no one could misunderstand what he was saying. If someone slaps you on the cheek, you should offer them the other one. If someone asks for your coat, give them your shirt as well.
Those specific situations may never happen to us, but Jesus’ point is clear. If someone undermines you, is rude to you or takes advantage of you, you mustn’t fight back. That may be our natural reaction, but Jesus wants us to respond differently. His way of love demands a completely new way of thinking and acting.
Jesus gives all his followers one golden rule: “do to others as you would like them to do to you” (Luke 6:31). It’s a simple, and straightforward, way of setting ourselves free from living a self-centred life in which we are always looking for others to meet our needs. Thinking like that towards our friends may come naturally to most of us. But Jesus calls us to go far beyond that - by loving and caring for those in our lives who are the most unpleasant and difficult.
Jesus’ words are tough, but remember this: he promises to walk with us and strengthen us as we live them out.
QUESTION
Who is the most difficult person in your life? What do Jesus’ words mean for your relationship with them?
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank you that you give me the strength to live for you each day. Amen
Released on 26 May 2023
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