READ
REFLECT
It seems that at the moment, there is a lot of hatred being demonstrated on the news and in social media. I personally am appalled and amazed at the vitriol against Jews in particular, many of whom have been made to feel unsafe by the very people they have shared neighborhoods with for many years.
As Christians we know we are saved. God loved us so much he sent His only son to die for the sins we commit. In return, we should live our lives just as Jesus did – by loving those around us and demonstrating that love by our actions of service to them, in the name of Jesus. Easy to say, difficult to do.
But consider: Romans 12:19-21 “Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, ‘I will take revenge; I will pay them back, says the Lord’.
Instead, if your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink.
In doing this, you will pour burning coals of shame on their heads. Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.”
If we have experienced God’s forgiveness then why would not forgive others?
RESPOND
- Examine what you are doing or thinking, with the simple question: “What would Jesus do?” The answer will guide your next steps.
- Be faithful: pray, listen, act, love, serve, worship, forgive, repeat
