Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
–Â Matthew 5:42-44
Jesus calls us to a love that goes beyond feelings and into action. Reflection: When you give to the one who asks and do not turn away the borrower, you practice trust in God’s provision and compassion for human need. Loving enemies and praying for persecutors is not approval of wrong, but a refusal to repay evil with evil. Love becomes a witness, it exposes the power of grace and softens hearts, starting with your own. Loving those who hurt us is hard work and a daily choice. Let this passage remind you that mercy and active kindness break cycles of hurt and open the way for healing. Choose one small, concrete act of kindness this week toward someone difficult; let it be a prayer in motion.
Dear Blessed Lord Jesus, soften my heart and give me the courage to love where it is hardest. Help me to give freely, to bless those who curse me, and to pray for those who hurt me. Fill my actions with Your grace so that my life points others to Your mercy. Love You, thank You, praise You and give You all the honor and glory in Your Precious Mighty Name Amen.
"Only Life Changes" 