Libertyville Congregation Devotions

5/10/06

God has different reasons for us being here. One big reason is to be able to learn to love others unconditionally. Jesus Christ instructed us to love others this way, and to love and pray for those who despitefully use us and persecute us. This may apply to one's spouse or family member. By remembering and applying this the moments of conflict can become momentary speed-bumps and not a mountain range.

Matthew 5:43-48 (NRSV)

43 ‘You have heard that it was said, “You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.” ⁴⁴But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, ⁴⁵so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. ⁴⁶For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax-collectors do the same? ⁴⁷And if you greet only your brothers and sisters,^* what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? ⁴⁸Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.