June 29, 2015 – Luke 6:30-31

Give to anyone who asks; and when things are taken away from you, don’t try to get them back. Do to others as you would like them to do to you. Luke 6:30-31In today’s culture of offense and political correctness, we twist God’s desire for us to love — even our enemies — into the righteous anger which is not God’s plan.  To be vulnerable and loving in the name of Jesus Christ is.  Without Christ we set ourselves up as a self-kingdom where we make our own rules.  Our culture has become self-centered.  Belonging to Christ is ‘other-centered’.Forgiveness is outmoded.  Righteous anger is in, our culture demands.  And both views are contrary to what Jesus teaches.  Brant Hansen writes in his book, ‘Unoffendable’,  drop anger, let things go, embrace forgiveness and choose to be unoffendable.  We are not entitled as children of God to continue anger that comes upon us at times, it is God’s right.How do you let go of anger and betrayal and hurt?  Do good to them. Lend without expecting back. Pray.  Remember how much Jesus suffered for each of us, his acts of love, his gentleness with children, his giving nature.  He loved us first.Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s  faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Colossians 3:12-13“Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from heaven will be very great, and you will truly be acting as children of the Most High,  for he is kind to those who are unthankful and wicked. You must be compassionate, just as your Father is compassionate. Luke 6:35-36