Matthew 23:37-39
37 “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing. 38 Look, your house is left to you desolate. 39 For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’”
Do you hear the frustration and sorrow in Jesus’ voice when you read today’s verses? He has spent several years trying to reach the Jews at this time. He had done many miracles and preached all over. Yet, the Pharisees and Sadducees still dogged His every step. They continued to complain about everything He did. They were even looking for a reason to kill Him. Through all of this, Jesus still loved them and cared for them. He was showing concern over them.
So, what do you do when you have tried everything and someone still shows just how much they hate you,? Perhaps you want to reach out and throttle them. I would never feel that way, she says with sarcasm! I know it is very tempting, VERY, VERY tempting, to throw that hatred right back at them. Please don’t. Take a breath and remember who you are. You are saved and loved by God. You have been given grace for all of your evil hatred thoughts. What makes you any better than them?
Forgiving and moving on does can literally mean, moving on from a relationship. When you move on though, hold on to the grace. Love them enough to
keep praying. You may just be one prayer
away from them changing.
Lord, I want to pray for those who continue to hurt me. Help me to forgive them and move on in my life. I pray that someone will reach them and open their eyes to You. ~amen
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