SHOOT YOUR ENEMIES WITH LOVE BULLETS

Saturday, March 03, 2007
Readings: Deuteronomy 26:16-19; Matthew 5:43-48

God loves everybody! At least he tries to. God’s love is sent out to all creatures. Those who accept it receive it; those who reject it don’t. Simple as that! God’s home, heaven, is the abode of those who accept him and his love; Hell is the forever retirement home for those who choose to reject his love.

Jesus tells us to love our enemies just like God loves his. God’s enemies are those who don’t love him. Among those who don’t love him are those who hate him, ignore him, or couldn’t care less about him.

Are there any people who are like that in regards to you? For any reason whatsoever is there anyone who holds you in contempt, treats you like dirt, thinks you are worthless, anyone who considers you unimportant and second rate? Those are the ones Jesus is talking about. “Love your enemies,” he says. “Pray for your persecutors. This will prove you are sons and daughters of your heavenly Father, for his love goes forth to everyone just like the sun shines on the good people and the bad ones, like the rain comes down on the just and the unjust.”

This love business is really tough. Jesus died praying for his killers. So did Stephen, the first martyr. That’s what makes a saint. Love and pray for those who can’t stand you. Be like God.