Do the Impossible

Today’s devotional is from this week’s pastor’s corner.

“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect. - Matthew 5:43-48

Although many of us are familiar with Jesus' command, "Love your enemies!" we do not know how to apply the imperative. A typical response is, "I do not have any enemies." The Jews despised the Romans, who were oppressing them. How could they love the Romans? 

Jesus was asking for the impossible. 

Although we may not have any direct "enemies," we are witnessing the evils of war in Ukraine. Could the Ukrainians extend love to the Russians and Putin? Could you? Jesus is asking for the impossible! 

The Well Church, loving and praying for our enemies does not save us -- we are saved by Jesus' saving work on the cross. 

He demonstrated perfect love by doing the impossible! 

We can only accomplish the impossible by relying on Christ. Do the impossible with Christ by praying for your “enemies,” those who persecute you for following your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Let us continue to pray for everyone impacted by this terrible war. Let us pray for protection and peace. May God’s love manifest in you as you pray.