“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike.

Matthew 5:43-45

Dear God, it’s important for me to remember that you love your enemies to, and that includes me. That doesn’t mean you don’t have to sometimes withdraw your presence from someone who is hostile towards you or flaunts unholiness in your face, but you are always there to reach out to your enemies and ready to forgive. You expect no more of me than you are willing to give yourself.

Speaking of enemies, I was at a funeral the other day and we read the 23rd Psalm. “You prepare a table for me in the presence of my enemies.” How do you feel about that line? It strikes me as something David was communicating to you as he sorted out the fear or need he felt at the time with the fact that you had given him victory over a lot of enemies. But should I pray that? Is that statement true? In light of what Jesus is saying here, could it more rightly said that your table for me, regardless of my enemies’ condition, is enough and I am content with it?

Father, I don’t think I have many enemies, which is good, but as I go through the day I know there are people I don’t like. Help me to love and pray for them. Help me to let go of my need or desire for a nice table and to embrace you for the God who loves me and knows better than I do what good gifts I need as you channel my life to fit into your plan.

In Jesus’ name I pray,

Amen