Devotion:
Read Matthew 5:43-48.
This is in the middle of what is commonly known as “The Sermon On The Mount.” It is some of Jesus’ highest and deepest teaching. This is the last of six segments that begin with “You have heard that it was said…” in which Jesus takes earlier common teachings to a new level.
Apparently the common teaching of that time was to “Love you neighbor and hate your enemy.” I think it is safe to say that many people today, even those claiming to be Christian, live by that teaching. But Jesus takes this emphasis on love to a whole new level. Love is to be shown even toward enemies. This is a love that is revealed in actions. It may not be felt toward enemies, but it can be shown toward them.
Why are we to do this? Because we are seeking to let our lives be guided by God. And this is what God is like. Through Christ, God has shown us this “perfect” love. It is a love that goes way beyond common human understanding. It is divine love. As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to spend the rest of our lives growing toward this kind of love.
John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement, taught that the height of grace was this “perfection in love.” He called it “sanctifying grace.” God does not just save us by grace; God calls us into a never-ending relationship of growing in receiving and sharing this love that will do anything to help and serve even an enemy. “God so loved (that enemy) that he gave his only Son….” (from John 3:16) Will you join God in that love?
Personal Worship Option:
Which of your enemies is God calling you to show love toward right now?
No comments:
Post a Comment