9 11 01
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteousness…” ~ Matt. 5:43-45
When I woke up this morning, I saw the most beautiful sunrise that I’ve seen in a long time. Unlike any other time in my life, I didn’t take the time to reach for my phone to snap a pic.
Before I knew it, tears started streaming down my cheeks. Like many of you, I thought about all of those innocent people who were killed on 9 – 11. I thought about their families, friends, first responders and co-workers who are still dealing with so much pain – today and forever.
I can’t help but feel angry as I know most Americans are and probably always will.
And then I thought about those people who attacked us, and I prayed for their families as well. Human nature makes us want to hate, but if you believe in God you know he instructs us to do otherwise – even when it’s the last thing we want to do.
I prayed for the people who are considered to be our enemy because I know prayer works. I highlighted the word ‘people’ because that’s what they are. It’s almost hard to believe, but they have a beating heart like you and I. The difference is – they were raised in a place where they weren’t exposed to the love of God or didn’t experience what it’s like to strive to love all people. I believe that God has the power to change anyone, don’t you?
I know some might argue that you have to want to change, so why waste your time? I agree – and that’s the same for you and me. Many of us have been exposed to the gospel, yet we still choose to turn our backs to the one who loves us more than anyone. Maybe we don’t go out and kill, but we certainly don’t care about breaking every other commandment that hurts not only our self, but others as well.
And then, when we are attacked in some way – we wonder where God is…
“The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live.” ~ 1 Tim. 2:1-3
“Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” Col. 4:2
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“Be the reason someone believes in the goodness of people.” ~ Karen Salmonsohn
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