8 September Revd Andy Chislett-McDonald

Love whom? Scripture, reflection and prayer.
​
Luke 6:27-36 " “But 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. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. Do to others as you would have them do to you.

“If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them.  If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful."

Reflection.  Who hasn't heard the phrases about kicking someone when they are down; about taking advantage of people when they are in a weaker position. 

And once again, here comes Jesus and overturns the usual thinking. "Love your enemies." That is rather different to a world which often feels bent towards taking advantage of people. "Do good to those who hate you." 

And what about cheek-turning, giving to beggers, not asking for possessions to be returned - good grief, discipleship is a pain isn't it? Is really Jesus saying that I should not complain when beloved books are go unreturned?

'Love, do good, lend, expect nothing in return.'  Jesus says there is a greater reward in this behaviour. We would be children of the Most High echoing God’s mercy.  There is wideness in God's mercy (A hymn in there!), it reaches to the ungrateful and the wicked. Jesus couldn't be including us in those last two groups, could he?
​
Prayer. Lord Jesus, help me to be kind and merciful this day. In your name. Amen.