In today’s divided world, it’s easy to see those with opposing views as enemies. We put our trust in political groups that make promises to fight for us. But there is a deeper solution to our discord – one that asks much more of us than we tend to give. It demands sacrificing self-interest for the good of those we disagree with most. At first, this seems counterintuitive, yet it may be the only way to find unity.
As we’ll explore, when fear and distrust take root, we look for answers in all the wrong places. But there is a alternative that, though challenging, has power to heal brokenness. By reconsidering old assumptions and walking in another’s shoes, we just discover our shared humanity. And in putting others first without limits, we receive more than we give. This path is the invitation. Are we willing to accept?
- In our culture, when God is locked out, three things fill the vacuum – sex, money, and power.
- Many in America now live in fear, which is a sign that something besides God has become an idol. Political ideologies have become like gods that people believe will save them.
- Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan to illustrate what it means to truly love your neighbor. Loving enemies requires sacrifice and generosity.
- Religious people like the priest and Levite in the story help others until it costs them something. Only a supernatural experience with Christ can transform you to love enemies.
- If you have truly experienced radical grace, you will become the kind of neighbor Jesus calls you to be. The fruit of compassion shows the tree is alive.
- Jesus wants us to create an alternative Christ-centered community that serves others, even enemies, with generosity. This kind of love can draw people to the gospel.
True peace will never come through force or political victories alone. As tensions rise, the solution isn’t to respond in kind, but with courage unmatched – caring for people as people, independent of views. When we serve not out of duty but genuine concern for human well-being, even in those most different from us, hearts soften in a way no law or policy can match. This is the revolution of spirit that changes minds from within, community by community, if we find the fortitude to start.
Dark days may continue, but need not define us if we choose to define ourselves by how we lift each other. Though challenges seem immense, together we can light small fires of good that spread hope where there was only heat. The choice, as always, is ours – to react from fear, or rise with empathy and conviction of our shared stake in human welfare. If enough of us accept this call, a new day begins.