Jesus said, “But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. Do to others as you would have them do to you.
“If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.” Luke 6:27-38
Loving Creator, provider of all life
you give us all we need in great measure
family, community and love overflowing
shelter and peace even in hard times.
We have been living in troubled times
some have hoarded goods in fear
others have held back love and compassion
others have made huge profit from us.
Yet you would have us share all we have
pressed down, shaken together abundance
running over with joy and expectation
because in blessing others we will be blessed.
Help us to return love for hatred today
empower us to live compassionately
turning the cheek and praying for enemies
so that we might carry a measure of your love. Amen.
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