Love in the extreme
Matthew Chapters 5 – 6:24
Today’s reading provides almost infinite possibilities for understanding what it means to live as a Christ-follower. In fact, we’re all heard it preached and taught on so many times that it’s easy to think of it just as a rich source of good, but unrealistic, advice.
Especially during Holy Week, though, we remind ourselves that these words of Jesus weren’t meant to be hyperbolic and idealistic but rather real-world advice.
In Chapter 5, Jesus says we are blessed when people insult and persecute us. “Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
Later, starting in Verse 38, he warns against seeking vengeance. “But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.”
A few verses later he continues, “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven.”
How do we do this? Isn’t this inflated and metaphorical language about some lofty goal that’s beyond our reach?
If it’s tempting to think so, think back to that week we are remembering. Jesus was misunderstood and persecuted like no one else before or since. He went willingly to a particularly painful and humiliating death to prove that he really meant these words. Even from the cross, he prayed for his enemies: Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.

Wednesday meditation

Proverbs 25:15-17
Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.
If you find honey, eat just enough—too much of it, and you will vomit.
Seldom set foot in your neighbor’s house—too much of you, and they will hate you

Prayer focus
God, when it seems the world is crashing down and no one understands, remind us all we have to do is love, not make sense of it.