Blessing our Enemies

Many people are being persecuted in our world. Most of us have been wronged by someone. How does Christ’s love for us transform our relationships with others? When we show love towards others, that is part of who we really are, not just a front we put on to impress people. This love cares about other persons, made in God’s image just as we are. This love treats them with respect, shows them hospitality, helps them when they are in need and blesses rather than curses them.

How do we bless these persecutors? Perhaps it is a calm reply to anti-Muslim hecklers that states clearly a belief in love, courage and an inclusive Canada, where we show people how to treat others with love by welcoming them. Perhaps it is gathering pledges of financial support for an anti-Nazi organization for each metre they march through the town and the messages written on the street, then thanking them for raising so much money against hate. Is it easy? NO! However, it is what our Lord Jesus commanded us to do: love our neighbours and our enemies as ourselves. With the Holy Spirit’s help, we can do it.

O God, help us see persecutors as you see them, and help them see us as you see us. Amen. — CJD