Those Who Hate

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Those Who Hate

Luke 6:27-31 (NRSV)

[Jesus said,] "I say to you that listen,
Love your enemies, do good to those
who hate you, bless those who curse
you, pray for those who abuse you.

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If anyone strikes you on the cheek,
offer the other also; and from anyone
who takes away your coat do not
withhold even your shirt.

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Give to everyone who begs from you;
and if anyone takes away your goods,
do not ask for them again. Do to others
as you would have them do to you."

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If you see the donkey of someone
who hates you fallen down under
its load, do not leave it there;
be sure you help him with it.
-- Exodus 23:5 (NIV)

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"DO good to those who hate you"
(Luke 6:27) is one of the most difficult
principles of the Christian faith.

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I can pray for someone who does not
like me, but performing an act of
kindness forces me to rely on God's
Spirit and strength.

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I undercut my intention to do good
by wondering, "What if my kindness
is rebuffed?" or "What if the person
dislikes me more?"

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Asking, "What if I disobey God? "brings
me back to the challenge at hand.
I say something kind to the person.
I offer to lend her a book I've
heard her say she wants to read.


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I offer a cup of coffee when I could
have avoided her. I help when I could
have simply ignored the need.

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Usually doing good is a simple act that
I would do joyfully for a friend. But
little deeds become big acts of faith
when I do them for someone who
dislikes me.

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Jesus wants us to deal with others as
he has dealt with us. Christ gave his
life for us when we were alienated
from him.

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We show God's love by extending
kindness to those who are alienated
from us.

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Prayer: God, show us how to
demonstrate your love by doing good
to those who hate us. Amen.

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THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
Being kind to those who dislike us
reflects the character of God.
Author Unknown