December 24, 2019 – Romans 12:16-19

Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” Romans 12:16-19.

How is it possible to live in Peace with each other?  We are different from each other in language, skin color, and place in life.  We celebrate the birth of Jesus, and how is it possible the One who told us,  Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.  John 14:27.  What is the common denominator? Love, as Jesus loves us.  Jesus sees us with a forgiving heart.

 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”  I Samuel 16:7.  When we only see how different we are, we lose the joy of loving like Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Philippians 4:20.

There is more, to this ‘Jesus kind of Love‘. By seeing to our enemy’s needs, we overcome the darkness of evil with good.

To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Romans 12:20-21.