Into a world even more violent and divided than ours, the apostle Paul spoke words that are stunningly relevant for us today.
Don’t hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you’ve got it in you, get along with everybody. Don’t insist on getting even; that’s not for you to do. “I’ll do the judging,” says God. “I’ll take care of it.”
Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he’s thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don’t let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.
(Romans 12:17-21 - The Message)
For those who claim to follow Jesus, these are our marching orders. For those who don't follow Jesus, this is still pretty sage advice, right? So, log off social media, turn off the news, take out your earbuds, and give this a shot.
- Discover beauty in everyone
- Get along with everybody, as best you can
- Don't insist on getting even
- Buy an "enemy" lunch or better yet, a drink
- Don't let evil get the best of you
- Get the best of evil by doing good
And may the God of sacrificial love, peace and mercy give us strength for the days ahead.
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
So timely and important in these times! Praying for peace. Thank you, Alice!!
Hey -- thank you, friend. Praying for you in these interesting times, too!