The other day I wrote the post on Persecution (see below) and our good buddy Brian made some wonderful comments that really got my wheels turning. Especially on how we as Christians treat those different from us.
That very evening I read the following that had popped up in my inbox. It's a daily email from James Robison about praying for our nation (see www.thesoulofanation.com) It was so good and so applicable to the discussion that I just wanted to post it in it's entirety:
The Soul of a Nation: Day 11 Loving Our Enemies
When considering the short list of America’s enemy states, certainly Iran would rank in the top five, challenging North Korea for the top spot. But Jesus said, “Love your enemies” (Matthew 5:44); so in December 2003, when reports came pouring in following the 6.3 magnitude earthquake in Bam, Iran, Americans responded immediately and generously.
Alabama disaster relief workers were first on the scene. Iranians thought “Alabama” stenciled on the supply crates was our use of their language, meaning “God with us.” The impression of Americans bringing God to their aid speaks louder than any speech, commentary or treaty. It is life and love undeniable.
America should pursue such opportunities. Compassion could be the greatest weapon in our arsenal, because it so effectively encourages peace.
Compassion works. It does not always happen overnight, but ultimately love conquers all.
It’s not always easy to act with compassion. Please join me in reading Matthew 5:38-48. We need God’s help to shed our selfishness and clothe ourselves with righteousness and grace toward others. Take time today to ask God to bless you with eyes to see the world with compassion.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, Your standards for us are high. The world teaches us to hate and destroy our enemies, but You say to love them, bless them and pray for them. This is so counter to what our hearts tell us to do. Remake our hearts, Lord. Give us Your heart so that we can move with love toward those who hate us. As you give us strength and opportunity to bless them, change their hearts toward us as well. Bring peace where there is hostility, unity where there is division. I do pray for our enemies, Lord. You see the anger and bitterness in their hearts. Reveal Your love to them and bring Your transforming healing. You alone are able to make something good tomorrow out of the evil that pervades today.
Hi Leilanni...thanks for giving me props in the post! Joking aside, I've enjoyed this current post series and glad that the comment has you thinking and exploring. Your posts ties in well to a quote that had me thinking a few weeks ago in Brian McLaren's book, "Generous Orthodoxy" on the chapter entitled 'Why I Am Missional'. He was quoting one of the lessons from his mentors saying, "Remember, in a pluralistic world, a religion is valued based on the benefits it brings to its nonadherents...for example, if Jesus sends people into the world to love and serve their neighbors, their neighbors benefit, and so do the people sent by Jesus, since it is even better to give than to receive". If you haven't read anything by Brian McLaren, I'd really recommend the aforementioned title, "Everything Must Change", "A New Kind of Christian" or "Finding our Way Again" part of a new spiritual practices series edited by Phyllis Tickle.
ReplyDeleteoh, leilanni - these last two posts touched me and REALLY convicted me (and my husband will be pleased;) to be more involved with what's going on in our world politically. i've always been bad about turning away because it seems so negative...but if i truly want to glorify God in all ways i have to face even things like this with prayer.
ReplyDelete...i've spent the last hour on the soul of a nation website and the christian peacemakers team site (thanks to your friend brian;).
R - I'm with you. I rarely ever watch the news because it's sssoooo negative. My heart gets so overwhelmed at all the sadness in the world. But, like you, once I caught wind of these stories I was so convicted.
ReplyDeleteMiss you!!!!!