Today’s scripture: Luke 6:27-38 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (David Zier):
God, I have this treasure I want to give to you. But I need your help.
I try to do the right thing. I try to be nice, I try to be simple. But I say and do the things that I don’t want to do. So unlocking this treasure is hard. Help me.
I come to Jesus with good intentions. I can say the right things on the surface. But then it ends. My actions show otherwise. Why do I get caught up in the turmoil of disagreement, conflict, and even hate? I let it rule my mind; rule my world. I see those opposing me, working against me, or not agreeing with me as the enemy. And my good intentions go down the drain. It is hard to love my enemy. It is hard to love those who oppose me; those who treat me badly. Do they really deserve my love?
Yes, I know it is easier to love those who love me. Should I keep it locked inside, reserved for only those who love me, or show me kindness, or who don’t oppose me? But that is my problem. I look at it as “my” love. It is “mine” to divvy out.
But today I come to you Jesus, because I need help. Help me to open my treasure chest. Help me to love well; especially when it is hard. I know you don’t want me to be a door mat, and I know people do unspeakable things to each other, and this can be really heartbreaking, and your message confusing. But I know you are trying to tell me that it is about grace — it is not about who deserves it.
So Jesus, I come to you today with my treasure. Help me to open my treasure chest and show love in a better way. I come to you because I know you have the key to help me unlock it. Help me to love well. Help me to not just talk about it. Help me open this treasure chest, so that “love” is what I do.
Love and Peace to you Jesus; I bring you me.
Amen.
Thought for the day: Jesus, I bring my heart to you. Show me how to love well.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.