The Golden Rule
READ: Luke 6:27-36
Eric was in the cafeteria when Chris, a guy known for not treating others well, walked in. Eric did not particularly like Chris, but Chris did not have any lunch money, so Eric decided to offer Chris him some money to buy his lunch. He knew he would never see that money again, because it was unlike Chris to pay anyone back.
People might wonder why Eric would do something like that. Why would he lend money to someone whom he knew would not pay him back? Eric did that because he was showing Chris Christ-like love. Luke writes to us, “Love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting anything in return. Then your reward will be great and you will be sons of the most high.”
The next time someone, especially someone whom you don’t feel close to, needs a favor; don't be afraid of granting it. God our Father sees such deeds, and is pleased with them.
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT: Do you think these verses mean for us to let people take advantage of us? What makes it hard for us to show love to our enemies? Once you have read the selection, how will you go about doing all the things the Lord commands of us to do for our enemies?
PRAYER SUGGESTIONS: Thank God for being kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Ask Him for enough self-control to be able to love our enemies. Praise Him for His mercifulness.