As, therefore, God’s picked representatives of the new humanity,
purified and beloved of God himself,
be merciful in action, kindly in heart, humble in mind.
Accept life, and be most patient and tolerant with one another,
always ready to forgive if you have a difference with anyone.
Forgive as freely as the Lord has forgiven you.
And, above everything else, be truly loving,
for love is the golden chain of all the virtues.
Colossians 3:12-14 J.B. Phillips New Testament
***
One who has been touched by grace
will no longer look on those who stray as “those evil people” or
“those poor people who need our help.”
Nor must we search for signs of “loveworthiness.”
Grace teaches us that God loves because of who God is,
not because of who we are.
Phillips Brooks
***
Don’t hit back; discover beauty in everyone.
If you’ve got it in you, get along with everybody.
Don’t insist on getting even; that’s not for you to do.
“I’ll do the judging,” says God. “I’ll take care of it.”
Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry,
go buy that person lunch, or if he’s thirsty, get him a drink.
Your generosity will surprise him with goodness.
Don’t let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.
Romans 12:19-21 The Message
***
God, help me to see others not as enemies or as ungodly
but rather as thirsty people.
And give me the courage and compassion to offer your Living Water,
which alone quenches deep thirst.
Henri Nouwen
***
Lord Jesus,
following Your example and command,
we pray for our enemies today.
We release any unforgiveness, thoughts of revenge,
or hateful emotions that have quenched Your Spirit in our hearts.
Give us wisdom as we seek how to bless, to love,
and to pray for our enemies.
Give us patience and a deep trust in You, Lord,
even when we can’t see any change in our enemies.
When we waver, not wanting to pray for our enemies,
help us to remember Your grace in our own lives,
and what we would be without You.
In Your blessed name, Amen.