Matthew 5:43-48 Love!
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew 5:43-48)
This passage fits in with what Jesus later says are the 2 greatest commandments.
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: ” ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:38-40)
Our entire existence needs to revolve around love. Love God, love our neighbors, love ourselves. If these simple laws were followed, think how great our days would be. Even in the midst of persecution and suffering we would live fulfilled and joyful lives.
These simple commandments ordered to be the most important, are the most difficult for me. I pray that God will help me with these and remove the vengeful, judgemental thoughts and actions from me.