ONE OF THE BEST POSTS I HAVE READ THIS WEEK

I read what other bloggers write.  It is a way that I learn and also glean things to share with people who follow my work.  Here is one of the best posts I have read recently. - STEVE

LOVING EVIL PEOPLE

by Dan Masshardt on CHOOSE FOR TODAY

 Most of the time people’s desire is to see their enemies get what they deserve.

Our attitude toward those who do genuine evil and violence…

Murderers like the recently deceased Charles Manson.

Islamic terrorists…

People like Dylann Roof and Devin Patrick Kelley who specifically targeted and killed worshipping Christians…

How should we feel about them?

We often say things like…

“I hope they rot in hell.”

“I hope they die a slow and agonizing death.”

“Good riddance to them.”

We feel justified in these feelings because of the objective horror of their actions.

We often rejoice in their deaths.

What does Jesus say?

Those of us who apprentice ourselves after him should care.

“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 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.  If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?  And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?  Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”  Matthew 5:44-48

Perhaps we read those words and think that Jesus is only talking about people we have differences of opinion with.  Maybe people of a different political persuasion or fans of an opposing football team.
Don’t fool yourself.
What did Jesus do with his enemies?

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34

Jesus expressing his desire that the people who were in the process of killing him would seek the opportunity for forgiveness.

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