NT24 Fastਨਮੂਨਾ

Day 4 by Alexis Villasenor, Youth Pastor at UPPERROOM Frisco

Today’s Reading: Luke 1-12

“But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you." (Luke 6:27)

The Beatitudes in Luke 6 are filled with great treasure. A crowd gathered as Jesus began to teach. People followed Him for His true power. He would heal the sick, cast out demons, and give profound teaching when asked hard questions.

Loving your enemies is only possible with a good example. For you to love at all, love has to come from that which is good. As a man who is limited in his ability to do anything, I have found that when I get stuck and don't have the power within myself, I go to the source. Jesus has been that source for me.

I receive love for myself from Jesus; I look at the cross and Jesus's life. When I look at Him and listen to His words, I am filled with love; in that, I can do the hard things of life, like loving my enemies. This is an invitation for those willing to listen to Jesus's words to be filled with something that is beyond yourself. Enemies can wound the soul, but Jesus heals it. He can give you fresh healing and perspective to love those in front of you who have been misguided through sin.

To love your enemy is healing to your enemy. They need the love of Jesus for their soul, as we all do.

Prayer: Jesus, I thank you for Your great love. Your love is kind and patient, and it keeps no record of wrongs. I pray for the mind of Christ and great patience to be able to love our enemies. We receive your forgiveness for ourselves as we know we were once enemies of God, and we receive Your great love for our souls. Let our cup overflow with Your great love in Jesus' name!