By Jeff Reedy, Store Manager, Sidewalk Advocates for Life
Verse(s): “Do not be surprised, my brothers and sisters, if the world hates you. We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love each other. Anyone who does not love remains in death. Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him. This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.”
– 1 John 3:13-16
Reflection: John tells us not to be surprised when the world hates us.
He got this from Jesus, of course, who said the same thing in John 15:18. And it’s true today just as it was at the time he wrote it.
The world especially hates when we point out what it right and wrong. Which is sad because we point out these things, not to make them feel bad (or, at least, that shouldn’t be our motivation) or to make ourselves look better, but in order to help people to live good, full, vibrant, abundant lives. But they don’t want to hear it, partially because it means they have to change and admit they’re wrong — two things people hate doing. But partially because they have been lied to by the “spirits of the age” against whom we are truly fighting.
So, keep this in mind: Don’t be surprised when the world hates you. It’s GOING to. We KNOW it will. Be prepared for it. Go in knowing that it will happen.
And love them anyway. You never know whose soul will be saved because you were prepared to love them anyway.
Faith Challenge: Pray for all those who hate us and the pro-life movement. They are hurting. Know this His love is enough to win them from hate to healing, peace, and love.