But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either. Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back. And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.
If you love those who love you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great... {Verses 27-35}
If you read this text today and ignore it, then you are the audience to which Jesus says in verse 46, "Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I tell you?" I want to expand on this verse- but if you read it honestly and meditate on what it says, I think it speaks loud enough.
Brothers and Sisters, I love you and I am so honored to be on this journey with you. There is much to learn and obey in Scripture- some which you will obey without a flinch and some that you will resist as long as you can. Any procrastination of obedience is not obedience at all. It's disobedience. I'm not sure why I feel so strongly about this chapter- more specifically this text for my readers today, but know that I am on my knees asking God to change hearts today.
Amen.
~Leanne~