Luke 6:27-28
At some point or another, every one of us has been betrayed or hurt by someone around us. When this happens, we have a natural tendency to feel dissent and hatred towards that person. Jesus’ words in Luke 6:27-28 challenge our natural instincts. Loving those who hurt us feels impossible, yet this is exactly what Jesus did. On the cross, He prayed for His persecutors, embodying the radical love He calls us to show. True love is not just a feeling but a choice—a decision to reflect God’s mercy rather than respond with resentment. Lent is a time of self-examination, a season when we reflect on Christ’s call to love in the most difficult ways. During this time, we are invited to let go of grudges, release bitterness, and practice the love of Christ in our daily interactions. This kind of love transforms us. It softens hardened hearts, breaks cycles of hatred, and draws us closer to the heart of God. It does not mean ignoring injustice or tolerating wrongdoing, but rather responding with grace and entrusting judgment to God. As we journey through this Lenten season, let us ask: Who in our lives do we struggle to love? Can we take the first step in blessing, praying for, and showing kindness to them? Jesus calls us to love not only when it is easy to but to also love when it is difficult. In doing this, we as Christians reflect the love we also have received in Christ.
CLOSING PRAYER
Lord Jesus, Your love knows no boundaries, and You call us to love as much as You do. But we confess that it is difficult to love those who have hurt or opposed us. During this Lenten season, open our hearts and teach us to bless instead of curse, to pray instead of resent, and to love instead of hate. May Your Spirit guide us in showing kindness, patience, and forgiveness, just as You have shown to us. Help us to be a light in a world that so often repays evil with evil. We surrender our hurts to You and trust in Your perfect justice and grace. In Your name, Amen.