Scripture: 1st John 3:15
All who hate a brother or sister are murderers, and you know that murderers do not have eternal life abiding in them.
Thought for the Day: As I said in an earlier devotional, 1st John does not sugarcoat anything. Every other sentence can feel like a smack upside the head. Of course, does everyone who hates also murder? I do not believe that’s the case. Though I hear the words of Jesus echoed in these words from 1st John – when Jesus compared hatred and murder in the Sermon on the Mount. Could it be that hate is not the same as murder, but it does fan the flames, provide excuses and create a rationale for those who choose to act violently? I’m not one that believes everything is a slippery slope, but when it comes to hatred, there are a lot of people with their toes curled over the edge of a very slippery slope. Jesus and 1st John saw the danger, and their words were a challenge for all of us to be intentional when it comes to moving away from that hate-generated point of no return.
Prayer: I want your eternal life, the abundant life, to dwell within me, Merciful God. I know that such a gift cannot reside if my life is so full of hate. Continue to work with me as I strive to find peace within, to offer forgiveness, to let go of bitterness and resentment. I want your eternal life, the abundant life, to dwell within me, but it will require faithful work. Be my guide. Amen.
