SUMMARY: Active love
OVERVIEW: The Pharisees criticized Jesus for healing on the Sabbath. They could not see God in their midst because they focused on the law rather than love.
BIG IDEA: Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
KEY VERSE: Luke 6:35–36 (Jesus teaching the disciples)
Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High, for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked. You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate.
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Love is a gift. I give it to you thoroughly and freely, even though you don’t deserve it. I want you to give this gift of love to everyone, even those who do not love you. Give love to those who mistreat you and to those who have made poor decisions. Give love to those who will not acknowledge your kindness for doing so. And continue loving those who already feel loved by you.
Give love from a full, healthy heart. Don’t love in unhealthy ways. Don’t give just to make yourself feel better or make yourself look good. Don’t do so simply to get approval from those who need love. Don’t love out of convenience for yourself. Don’t love others to the point where you neglect me or yourself or your responsibilities. None of that is love at all. Love is a gift, not a reward. Because I love you, give the gift of love to everyone everywhere and all the time.
NEXT STEP
Think of something loving that you need to do today, even if it surprises (or offends) people. Think of a way to do it without taking credit and do it today.
MUSIC VIDEO