Loving Our Enemies: A Call to Radical Grace

In a world where politics and divisions have strained relationships among family, friends, coworkers, and communities, Jesus offers a profound teaching for His followers. While He commands us to love our neighbors as ourselves, He calls us to an even higher standard: to love our enemies.

Consider this: Would you genuinely love your enemy? Would you offer them a glass of water if they were in desperate need, even after having wronged you? I’d like to believe I could demonstrate Christ’s love in such a situation, but I recognize that it would be a significant challenge. It is by the power of the Holy Spirit that we can aspire to this level of obedience.

Obedience to this teaching is difficult. Jesus Himself is the ultimate example of obedience. Among His twelve disciples, He knew one had an evil heart. Judas Iscariot, one of His closest followers, was destined to betray Him. The Bible tells us that Satan entered Judas (Luke 22:3; John 13:27).

During the Last Supper, Jesus revealed that one of the disciples would betray Him. He instructed that the one who would betray Him should act as he needed to, while the others questioned their own hearts. Despite knowing Judas' intentions, Jesus did not react with anger or condemnation. He did not strike Judas down nor harbor hatred against him. Instead, He allowed Judas to remain in His presence and partake in His ministry.

Some might argue, “Jesus knew this was part of God’s plan.” While this is true, it's also important to remember that Jesus was fully human. He faced the agony of impending crucifixion and prayed fervently to the Father to remove the cup of suffering, showing His deep distress (Luke 22:42-44).

Jesus’ lack of unrighteous anger and hatred towards Judas exemplifies a love that transcends our understanding. His response was not only an act of love but also part of a larger divine plan. Though He did not passively accept harm, as evidenced by His fleeing from danger when necessary (John 7:1), He consistently demonstrated love even towards those who opposed Him.

So, I ask you: Who is the enemy in your life that God is calling you to love? Reflect on this challenging call and seek the strength to embody the radical grace that Jesus exemplifies.