Matthew 5:44 New International Version (NIV)

⁴⁴ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

It is easy for a man to show respect and regard when it is done in return. We all have friends who like what we like. We have friends with the same hobbies, religious beliefs, and ideas. It is easy to call them friends.

Now, what about those who do not? There are people you will not share the same beliefs. Down through history, there have been tag names given to groups in order to dehumanize them, and to make it easier to hate on them.

This past March, I spent an eleven day trip to the Holy Land of Israel. This country has always experienced enemies and fighting down through the centuries of time. The nation is called God’s people, the Jewish people are his chosen. Not everyone living in that nation has the same opinion.

While visiting there, we had a Jewish guide and a Muslim driver, as well as, a Palestinian guide. All three got along well with each other. I heard them call each other brother. 

I asked our Jewish guide his perspective. He said that we are all brothers and have learned to live with each other. I would have to say that they had an extent of brotherly love.

During my time there, my views changed regarding the Muslims and Palestinians. I may not agree with their religious beliefs. I saw good men. God changes your heart in true manhood when you can see through different lenses and love who you call an enemy. When you ask for blessings on another, God blesses you, and your prayers will not be hindered.

Strength and Courage

Michael