We need more heroic and courageous peacemakers
+++
Matthew 5:44-45
“But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.”
+++
Of all the teachings of Jesus…this is one that most people simply ignore.
While people adamantly make stands over issues that we have no record of Jesus even mentioning…very few seem to embrace this very clear teaching.
The only way to approach this is to stop dividing all that we see into what’s “in” and what’s “out”…or who’s “in” and who’s “out.” Jesus showed us what happens when we throw people out…by becoming the ultimate “outcast” on the cross.
We can stand up for our beliefs while not rejecting or vilifying those who disagree with us.
That’s a first step.
I know that it seems impossible to love someone who commits horrible crimes and atrocities. While such a person certainly needs to face stiff consequences and be kept from harming more people…we must remember that such a person is also a child of God…just like you and me.
Perhaps the only way this world can change for the better is if more people would make an attempt to reach out to those who are troubled or difficult…or are somehow “different”?
Who will be the ones to have the courage to do it?
Let’s start by praying for those considered “enemies” and by asking God to help us do what seems impossible: love them.
As Jesus said, “For God…all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).
+++
Listen to the song of the day “Pour Me Out” by clicking HERE.
Sample and/or purchase my songs by clicking HERE.
CD’s available for purchase at BillTonnisMusic.com by clicking HERE.
Remember…God loves you!
Bill Tonnis Ministries 