An eye for an eye leaves us all blind... Love your enemies..(Matt. 5:44) During October 2010, Christians in Karnataka, India suffered a number of violent attacks at the hands of a small minority of religious extremists. (Details visitwww.opendoors.org). In such times, it is difficult not to be bitter and seek revenge. But our Saviour gave us a better way. "Love your enemies," he said, "bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you." (Matthew 5:44 NKJV) Reconciliation with our neighbours is not easy when some have been involved in violent attacks against us. Satan may tempt us to think that all members of the community are like our tormentors, perhaps because they share the same faith, but that is simply not the case. By nature, all men are sinners and enemies of God, but Christians have been reconciled to God by the death of His Son. Now we are his ambassadors, messengers of reconciliation to all nations. Just think - thosewho are our enemies and perecutors may one day, by God's grace, become our brothers and sisters in Christ. This happened to the violent persecutor of the early church, Saul of Tarsus. He was responsible for the death of many Christians, before he met the risen Lord Jesus Christ in person, and his life was completely changed. Being reconciled to God, he devoted the rest of his life to loving and serving God's people, and was known by his second name Paul, the apostle of Jesus Christ. So beloved, do not avenge yourselves. Let your open heart be shown by your open hand. |
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