Devotional: Love Your Enemies Matthew 5:43-48

“‘But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you’” (Matt. 5:44, NASB).

All of us have had someone to do us wrong. What is our attitude when we are hurt by someone? If you hit me, it is likely that my first impulse is to strike back. If you steal from me I want to see justice done. Suppose that I am hit by a friend or a beloved family member. Will my response be different than it will be if I am hit by my enemy; someone I just don’t like, or maybe someone that I have had a previous confrontation? Do I try to resolve the conflict, or, am I content to remain an enemy to the other person?

When I am in the seventh grade I meet Ernest. Ernest and I take several classes together. One day in history class words are exchanged between some of the boys. In the seventh grade boys are going through puberty. Their hormones are becoming more active having an effect on their physical, mental, and emotional life. Boys become more assertive and aggressive. In those days people would say, “He’s feeling his oats” meaning that he is feeling sure of himself and he is trying to take control of himself and others. Now back to Ernest and me.

I do not remember what was said. Whatever, the other boys challenged us to prove ourselves. It was decided that we would meet in the bathroom. We went into the bathroom followed by the boys. They were instigating; telling us to “get it on.” In a flash I hit Ernest in the mouth and blood flowed from his lips. Now, who won the fight is not the point in telling about this incident. The real story is what takes place in the weeks that follow.

The fight is over. Although some of the boys continued to bring up the issue Ernest and I say nothing. The boys want to see round two. Ernest and I say nothing in response to their words. Time goes on and since we are in classes together we observe how the other person acts in various situations. In time we begin to have nice things to say to each other. We never mention the altercation that had taken place. As time passes on Ernest and I develop a good relationship. From the eighth grade until we graduate from high school Ernest and I are best friends. How did this happen?

Ernest and I are raised in a home with brothers and sisters that we love. We know that there are times when siblings get into fights, and yet we love them. Our parents are teaching us to have the same attitude toward all people. It is possible that Ernest and I become enemies, but, instead we become friends. Jesus tells the people that they are to be perfect. They are to be mature. They are to treat their enemies and potential enemies in the same manner that they treat their brothers. Why? It is because we are sinners and the enemy of God. Yet, God loves us. God demonstrates His love for us, His enemy, by offering His Son Jesus to be an acceptable sacrifice for our redemption and our reconciliation back to God. Since we are reconciled to God we are no longer enemies. We are friends.

Reconciliation comes about when we do more than say “I’m sorry” even though that is a good starting point. Reconciliation and friendship takes place when we love our enemies and pray for them.

Prayer: Father in heaven, we thank You for Your love that brings reconciliation and friendship. Amen.