Do good to those who hate you. – Luke 6:27
Seemingly opposite to reason and the world’s thinking our Lord gave us the example of loving and blessing those who hate and do evil to us as believers. Jesus emulated that many times in his earthly walk. Stephen who was a Deacon full of the Holy Spirit was testifying to the religious leaders who crucified Christ just days before. His speaking with such boldness caused them to desire his death also He was dragged out of the temple and city and brought to a place where they started to stone him. Stones were hurled at this angelic figure. As each stone struck his sanctified body out of his spirit rose the same prayer of forgiveness for his persecutors: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60). Looking at the teachings of Jesus we can see the clear emphasis on this unreasonable love show to others when under duress or suffering:
“If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also” (Luke 6:29). “But I tell you, do not resist an evil person” (Matthew 5:39). “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness” (Matthew 5:10). “If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also” (John 15:20). “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” (Matthew 10:28). “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). To mediate on these precepts and ask ourselves in our daily lives are we following the Lord’s example? Are we able to humble ourselves in situations in daily life? Even above all of this we are to love fellow christians and look over their wrongs as love covers over a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8). Jesus in us can accomplish this miracle of forgiveness and love in the body of Christ.
