Blogging toward Sunday

Art via Google Images

In preparation for worship, read Matthew 5:38-48. In their commentary in the NRSV: Life with God Bible, Ben Witherington III and Darlene Hyatt offer these words of wisdom: 

Jesus' higher standard for his disciples is made clear--we are to perfectly manifest the love God has for all persons. This call to love extends even to our enemies. The love demanded here has nothing to do with reciprocal relationships; rather, it is a matter of giving with no thought of return. God the Father is characterized as an indiscriminate lover and blesser of both the evil and the good, giving to both the sun and the rain needed for crops and sustenance.

As you reflect on the above commentary and the reading, consider the following:

1. How difficult is it to love someone who has mistreated you?
2. What is your general response should you encounter that person again?
3. How does our ability to love compare with God's? 
4. What do you find most challenging about the Sermon on the Mount, in general?

I pray you are having a good week and look forward to worshiping with you Sunday.

Blessings,
Glenda