Matthew 5:43-48

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. - Matthew 5:43-48

Dear Jesus,

You modeled love for your enemies perfectly. I'm glad you did becasue your life covers mine. It really clears the air to hear you say, "Even pagans love their own people and greet them." It's not special Christian love to love those who love me first. It's special Christian love to show love to those who hate and mistreat me. A few times in my life you have walked with me through this special kind of love. It was a moving experience for me and the people you made me love. Give me this over the top unconditional love for the sand paper people in my life. Make me mature in love like you and your father are. I cannot do this one on my own. I will need your Spirit's supernatural power.

AMEN

Pastor Don Patterson

We weren't lovable when God first loved us. So, don't expect people to earn your love before you give it. Change them into someone lovable by how you treat them.