“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:43-44)
As we continue our journey through Lent, today’s scripture challenges us to reflect on the true nature of love. Jesus invites us to go beyond the natural inclination to love those who love us and to extend love even to our enemies. This radical love is not easy—it requires humility, patience, and the grace of God to even begin to practice it.
Loving our enemies can feel like an impossible task, but Jesus shows us that this kind of love is transformative. It is a love that calls us to rise above hatred, bitterness, and resentment. It calls us to choose peace over division and understanding over judgment. We are reminded that God loves us unconditionally, even when we were far from Him, and He asks us to extend that same love to others.
In our prayer today, let us ask God for the strength to forgive those who have hurt us and to love those who are difficult to love. May we be instruments of peace, reflecting the love of Christ in a world that so desperately needs it.
Prayer
Lord Jesus,
You have shown us the way of true love—the love that knows no boundaries and extends even to those who oppose us. Help me to let go of any anger, resentment, or hatred in my heart. Teach me to forgive as You have forgiven me, and to love as You have loved.
Grant me the grace to pray for my enemies and seek peace where there is conflict. May my actions reflect Your love and mercy, bringing healing to broken relationships and shining Your light in the darkness.
Amen.
“Lenten fasts make me feel better, stronger, and more active than ever.” -St. Catherine of Genoa
Make this Lent the best of your life (Prayer, Fasting, Repent, Almsgiving).
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. -Matthew 5:16
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