“We must love the unlovable. I have a dear friend who works hard to help other people, especially children in need…she is a giving person. Yet, when we discuss loving those who do evil towards others, those who stand in the shoes of the enemy, she replies that she hasn’t reached that level yet. She doesn’t hate them, but she doesn’t express love toward them either.
Jesus said, “Love your enemies.” Jesus had to apply that love to those who became His enemies, those who were of the household of Israel, and He had to love those who weren’t. God was our first love giver and His Son, Jesus, was a love giver…
Jesus applied His love to the Roman ruler, the enemy. Rome, the capital of the Roman Empire was wealthy, literary and artistic. The Romans worshiped many pagan gods. In 63 B.C., Palestine fell into the hands of the Romans. After this takeover, there was increasing desecration of the Holy land.
In the midst of this political climate that was taking place, Jesus began His teaching ministry. His words were directed to the House of Israel. He profoundly said to love your enemy so that you may be children of your Father who is in heaven. Rome was the enemy, symbolizing total frustration. But Jesus walked in love.
Christian love conquers all…To walk in love requires us to show respect for others, control our attitudes, words and actions toward others. If we are not doing this we are not walking in love. Love for God is inextricably tied to love for others…
When we truly love one another, Paul contended, we would do everything in our power to strengthen others as we walk with them in the way of Christ…I challenge all of us to live righteously. The challenge is to love Jesus more than we love all else, to serve Him with all of our heart, mind and soul. And then we will walk in love.”
Addie June Hall, Must I Tell It? I Gotta Tell It! A Book of Sermons That Are Promoting, Pronouncing, Propelling, Prospering and Providential (AuthorHouse: Bloomington, 2009) 17-19.