Today’s scripture: Luke 6:27-31 (ESV-text and audio) (NRSV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (David Zier):
What happens at work when your not-so-favorite co-worker pushes all your buttons and you just want to explode? What about that boss who drives you nuts and makes more demands than can possibly be met? What about that person who just cut you off on the road because they were running late? Our initial reaction is often to respond with retaliation or revenge.
What would happen throughout the day if you did something different? When someone does something to you that seems unkind, and you want to lash out, why not lift that person in prayer and show a little mercy? Why not choose to show God’s grace when it seems contrary to how we feel, and say something kind in response? Why not take someone to lunch who just mistreated you?
In this passage, Jesus is telling us that there is a different way than just mindlessly reacting. We can choose to do better. Why not brighten someone’s day, and be a blessing to someone who may mistreat you? You may find that their attitude towards you changes (at least a little), but you will also find that your attitude changes. When we do to others as we would have them do to us, our hearts are pointed a little more toward God — and we may be helping others point their hearts a little more toward God, too.
Thought for the day: How do I treat my enemies — both big and small? Am I pointing myself and those around me to God?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.