Thoughts for another day

November 12, 2008.

Today's verse: Lk. 6:27, 28. But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. (KJV)
(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)

The best a man can get from God is the realization of His love. God chooses people whose hearts are right toward Him and gives them this realization. I pray all humans have their hearts right toward Him so He can make them experience His immense love. In the canopy of His love, God teaches the truth about love. Many years ago, Jesus spoke the words in our verse today to those sitting on the green grass, under the blue sky. In the embracing warmth of a cool breeze, He revealed the values of the kingdom, speaking of one called ‘enemy’. He knew that people who raped truth and shattered justice became enemies of the people they adversely affected. Then the adversely affected would rise and try to harm them in turn. But Jesus knew the kingdom of Heaven had no space for such things.

Heaven meant the end of enmity and enmity can be erased with LOVE; therefore Jesus said they should love their enemies. He gave very contrasting action points shocking them…Bless them that curse you and pray for those who have cunningly used you for gain. Imagine the power of this teaching when we know it is difficult for us to even take the name of an enemy, leave alone pray for that person. But Jesus did what He spoke: On the cross, He beheld His killers and even in raging pain, He looked up to His Father and said, ‘Father, forgive them for they know not what they do!’

If we are His disciples, then we will be in a position to pray for our enemies. You may turn around and tell me, ‘brother, they have hurt me so much.’ But what kind of hurt can compare with the treatment Jesus got? Besides, when you come to the threshold where you are poised to reconcile with your enemies, the devil will use every means so that you forsake what you are about to do. He will use those dear to you to challenge your act based solely on human rationale. How can you do that, they will tell you. At that time, picture Jesus on the cross and remember He looked at you even at this time and He is waiting to hear your answer. What will you tell Him?