I live in a world where people do thoughtless and hateful
things to one another and sometimes even to me. I imagine that you do too. The
natural first response is to strike back. Often this striking is in the form of
cursing or speaking evil of the one who has hurt us. Mostly we do not do
physical harm, instead, we build resentment and try to exalt ourselves by
saying how terrible and wicked the other person is. This does not do any good
whatsoever. Actually, it does more harm to me than to the original offender.
It is like a dirty bomb that spreads misery, resentment and
sorrow in all directions. It is especially devastating to me or you if you are
the one spreading the hateful words.
Jesus has shown us a better way.
He didn’t only talk about a better way, he lived that way in
front of those who were around him.
Jesus went around doing good; healing people, feeding people
and encouraging people to love one another.
In response the people who were his enemies, lied about him,
twisted his words, threatened him and in the end crucified him.
As he hung on the cross dyeing, He prayed for his executioners,
“Father forgive them because they don’t understand what they are doing.” (Luke
23:34)
This is the testimony of life. The Life of the Living God in
one surrendered to His will. In the wake of this testimony, a soldier standing
by, responded, “Truly this was the Son of God.” (Matt. 27:54, Luke 23:47)
