LOVE YOUR ENEMIES

PRAYER PAUSE

Tuesday 19 June 2018

LOVE YOUR ENEMIES

Enter into the stillness of God within.

Reading:  “You have learnt how it was said: you must love your neighbour and hate your enemy.  But I say this to you: love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you; in this way you will be sons and daughters of your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:43-48)

Reflection. This saying – about loving your enemies – is often considered a radical departure by Jesus with ancient practice. Well, yes and no.  While there are texts that teach one should love only one’s friends and neighbours there are also passages that say it is wise to help your enemy.  It gives peace of mind. What is radical about Jesus is that we love our enemies, not just because it is a wise precaution, but because we want to transform the world.  We want to break down the barriers between people and create a new humanity where each one – no matter how poor, disadvantaged or disabled – finds her or his place in society,.where they are fully respected and loved.  That is tough and we have some way to go.  But we can be grateful that much progress has been made.  Yet the challenge remains.   

Prayer. Lord, help us to open our hearts to others, especially those to whom we are not easily attracted. Amen