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Love your enemy

March 17, 2025

Daniel 9:3-10 | Luke 6:27-38 | Psalm 79:1-9

Luke 6:27 – 28: Jesus said, “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.”

I don’t know if you find the above words as difficult as I do, especially with all the hatred, disappointment and frustration that seem to be buzzing around the world.   It seems like when you turn on the television you hear all the horrible and negative events that are happening around the world.   People seem to want to blame and point fingers at an individual or group or policies as to why things are so terrible.   The world seems to want to stay angry and upset about the events going on in the world or their communities.  

I must admit that I limit the amount of news I listened to or read about because I find it totally overwhelming to listen to and read about the events happening in this country and other countries.   I know some will say I am trying to tune the world problems out.   Well maybe it is but it is also a matter of self-preservation as I sometimes feel helpless to make anything that better.   

What I do know is that even little things can have a big impact on the world or even just one person.  For the past 7 years I have had the privilege of raising 2 amazing individuals and I hope I have instilled in them the importance of the words above.  I have tried to instill in them that not everyone will share their views or opinions.  I have told them it’s ok to disagree with people and it is okay not to like everyone as well.  I know I have not always been good at making it a secret that I don’t like someone or something and sometimes they remind me that it’s okay, but it should not let it affect me negatively. 

During Lent I try to add to my prayers those who I may view as my enemy.  I freely admit I don’t always remember to pray for them.  Can you imagine how the world would be if we all tried to pray for our enemies?  We find it very easy to say prayer for those who we love.  What do you think of our prayer list at church we added those we consider our enemies?  Can you imagine what the world would look like if we started to tell people you consider your enemy that you prayed for them today?  

Anna Pilkington

Happy St. Patrick’s Day