Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read Matthew 5:43-48.
For me, this is the height of Jesus’ teaching. It is appropriate that he is on a mountain when he gives this lesson. This particular teaching is the “Mt. Everest” of how he taught us to live and be as his people.
The world teaches us to hate our enemies; to try to destroy them. Even as Christians, we sometimes think that the best thing to do is just stay away from them. Moving up another level of relating to them might be to simply tolerate them in some way.
But love them? Come on, Jesus, you can’t be serious! Yes, he’s serious. And he showed us how to live this teaching. He not only walked through Samaria, but he shared his good news message with Samaritans and told stories of them being “good people.” He healed a Roman army officer’s slave. He prayed for the forgiveness of those who crucified him. Because of his love for everyone, he even gave his life for everyone, even those who did not love him.
He called his people to do more than everyone else does. It is easy to love those who love you. But can you love those who hate you? Only if you let the same Spirit that was in Jesus guide and empower you. Stay connected to that Spirit every day.
Personal Worship Option:
Join us in worship today as we reflect on this first part of the “Sermon On The Mount” from Jesus and worship the God he revealed to us.
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