Hello everyone. Over many years, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about what it means to love those who repeatedly hurt or abuse me, and, very gradually, I think I’m getting it all a bit straighter in my mind…
Love
* Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails (1 Corinthians 13:4-8; NIV).
* “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:27-8; NIV).
* “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16; NIV).
Father,
The core of the gospel is love for you,
For family and friends,
Neighbours and colleagues,
Acquaintances and strangers,
For enemies,
And even for ourselves!
You teach us to love those who hate us,
As well as those who are kind;
Those who curse us,
As well as those who bless;
Those who abuse us,
As well as those who care;
But you also warn us to be shrewd,
As well as innocent.
Lord,
Help us to love generously, yet wisely,
Staying on our guard
With those who hurt and harm,
Remembering to love ourselves,
As well as them.