Love Your Enemies

     In Luke 6:27-36, Jesus Christ tells us that we are to love our enemies and He reminds us that if we only do good to or love those that can reciprocate than we are no better than sinners who do the same. In Luke 6:31 the verse often called "The Golden Rule" says, "And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise." The problem that we sometimes run into is that we do good to or love others and they do evil and hurtful things to us. Then what? Do we keep doing good regardless of another's actions, walk away, or become bitter?
     I've often heard people say, "I send her gifts and she never even bothers to send a 'Thank you' card."
The only answer I've ever had to such statements is this, "If you want to send a gift, do so because that's what you want to do. If you will not be happy if you don't receive a gift in kind or a 'thank you' then don't send a gift at all." Because having expectations of others that we cannot control is the recipe for bitterness and division.
     If you are bitter about someone's response to your good deeds, then check your own motives. Why did you do the good deed? Did you want the person to like you? Did you want others to see how wonderful and generous you can be? Or did you do it because you wanted to do something that you felt would help the other person? If the latter, then you have done a good deed, plain and simple, with no strings attached. It will feel right and need no further follow-up on anyone's part. KT

Handmade gift bags by some of my crafty friends:)

Luke 6:35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil.