“But I tell you, love your enemies, pray for those who persecute you…”Matthew 5:44 (NIV)
Sometimes I read this passage from the Sermon on the Mount and I think, “Has Jesus met some of the people I work with?” "Has he met my brother, my neighbor or any of the other characters in my life?"
This is perhaps the hardest command to follow.
Jesus taught us and expects us to pray for our attackers, to lift up our critics and to love our enemies – because as Christians we’re supposed to be different, completely transformed and made new by Jesus’ saving grace.
Throughout the Passion, Jesus Christ prayed for the forgiveness of his enemies “for they know not what they do.” If Jesus could pray for his murderers as He was saving mankind from its sinful existence and marching towards his death on Golgotha, then what can we do to pray for the foes we face in our daily lives?
Why are we surprised when worldly people act worldly?
What do you think?
What do you think?
3 comments so far - add yours here:
The worst is when those who are, by name, your brothers in Christ attack and malign you. In the past 10 months, as a result of a critical situation in a local church, I have experienced such treatment. As a leader (in name at least), I patiently sought God's leading, knowing only He could resolve the situation. The situation came to a head in a manner that brought reproach on the name of God. I have since experienced judgment of my actions, my character, my heart, and my intent by those on various sides of the issue. The sad thing is that only one brother approached me personally (by email) to seek out my heart on the situation (Matthew 18) and a few approached me to express criticism and judgment directly. One person encouraged me by email. The joyous thing is that I have been able to work in a leadership role with some of those affected toward the resurrection of a church that seemed defunct. God seems to be working and there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I only wish I could speak personally with each of those involved in the original situation to repair our relationships. And regain my health that has been damaged by the pressure of the last ten months. I await the the day when the Lord will make all things right. Sorry to vent. I meant to make a point that in such situations, it is better to seek out information , especially from those with whom you seem to have a beef before judging either their actions or hearts. That would be the loving thing to do.
MC
Oh, if only we could master this. After all, it is what is required if we are to become like Christ. My character building field is at work - with those hostile towards the name of Christ. I am immersing myself in His Word and with His people in order to grow into and become what He's commanded. I have so far to go, but thanks be to God, I know the goal.
Yes, this is a hard one. One that I think very, very few people actually can embrace and follow Jesus example. There are so many emotions that run with this, that it is nearly impossible to be "pure" even though we are called to it. So, i guess we keep trying, keep praying, keep pressing on, with encouragement from our brothers and sisters!
Post a Comment