Scripture: Luke 6:28-34
But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. Do to others as you would have them do to you. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again.
Thought for the Day: What kind of example do we set? In yesterday’s message, I mentioned the not so well known movie, “The Royal Hunt of the Sun.” It is loosely based on the life of the great Spanish explorer Francisco Pizarro. He and his men were on a search through South America for gold. As they marched through the mountains of Peru, they came to a chasm spanned by a flimsy rope bridge. Even the bravest in the ranks looked at the swaying bridge, then down at the jagged rocks below, and they trembled with fear. Pizarro surveyed his troops, all trying to move back from the front ranks. At the rear were the clergy. Pizarro called out, “The church goes first!” and the priests in their robes walked to the front and led the group across the shaky rope bridge. Too often the church lets others take the lead and test the shaky bridges of life. Instead, we should be out in front (not in an arrogant way) demonstrating the faithful life. Sometimes it means that we take a great risk, but if we do not, what kind of Jesus are we representing?
Prayer: I do not wish to be brave, O Lord, but I request a spiritual courage for the sake of your kingdom. Amen.
