Love Your Enemies

By S. Bill Jimenez

WHETHER we like it or not, we make some enemies in life.  But instead of hating our enemies, let’s figure out how to be “for” them.  Let’s learn to practice forgiveness, optimism and reconciliation (FOR).  “Peace and friendship with all mankind,” said Thomas Jefferson, “is our wisest policy, and I wish we may be permitted to pursue it.”

Jesus Christ set an example on forgiving enemies when he prayed at the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34).

Earlier he preached: “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven…” (Matthew 5:43-45).

Doing what is right is not always a guarantee that people will treat us with love, acceptance, respect and consideration.  However, as Mark Twain insisted: “Always do right.  That will gratify some people, and astonish the rest.”  Being optimistic amid enemies is to exercise love, faith and hope.

It is always thinking and doing what is good.

Malcolm Forbes reminds us:  “Keeping score of old scores and scars, getting even and one-upping, always make you less than you are.”

Therefore, let’s practice the prayer of St. Francis: “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace; where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is discord, union…”

Loving enemies is a sign of greatness!

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