Jesus points out that it is all good to be good to the people who are good to you but then points out that there is nothing particularly special in that.
He suggests that we react differently to the bad done to us by loving those who hate, blessing those who curse, praying for those who mistreat, and giving to those who steal—giving
before they ask. Jesus suggests taking it further by choosing to love, do good for, and give more than expected or asked, with no strings attached.
This teaching feels ridiculously over-generous if we compare ourselves to how others behave. But the picture suddenly changes when we compare ourselves to how generous God is. God is compassionate and kind to those who love and fill God with joy. God is equally compassionate and kind to
those who hurt and grieve God. God loves the sinner and the saint, and we are encouraged to be like that, too.
Reflect on a period when you may have prayed only when you wanted something from God and ignored God the rest of the time. Do you have a sense of God being there for you despite this? Spend time thanking God for his generosity.
Have there been times when God blessed you with more than you thought you needed or before you had even asked? Spend time thanking God for his abundant care.
Perhaps you would like to write a poem, create a picture or sing a song of praise for how kind, merciful or generous God is in your life.
Reflections by Cherie-Lynn van der Merwe
