Note that Jesus also died for those who rejected him

One of the most conflicting scripture verses in the Bible is found in Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.

This was what Jesus spoke then, and since Jesus is the same today, the message is the very same.

Living in a very liberal world often tempts Christians to operate in a more liberal way. 

It is sad, but true, that today’s ‘free’ society is challenged greatly with the concept of loving an enemy. Many miss that it is by being able to love as God loves and as God instructs us to that you shall become more than a conqueror.

Yes, there are those things which are very difficult to carry out as you walk this life in humanity, Yet, as you give yourself away to the ultimate power of God’s love, you will find it easier to do what seemed impossible.

You can love your enemy. You can do good to those who have no good desires towards you! Why? Because you are in relationship with God who gave His Son, Jesus Christ, to serve His life as a sin-offering for all.

Jesus did not just die for those who would accept Him. Oh no, Jesus even died for those who reject Him. That is true servanthood. This is what we see with Queen Esther in this account. 

Esther 5:4 And Esther answered, If it seem good unto the king, let the king and Haman come this day unto the banquet that I have prepared for him.

5 Then the king said, Cause Haman to make haste, that he may do as Esther hath said. So the king and Haman came to the banquet that Esther had prepared.

Esther served a man who was out to kill her and all of the Jews of the land.  

Esther served a man who had the mind of a mass murderer. 

How can that be?  

Well, Esther had been before God. Esther and the people had fasted and prayed.

You must understand, prayer (most times) is not to change the other person, but is designed to change the one who is praying so that they will be in tune with God and do what God requires of them.

Esther left the presence of God knowing that God had heard her cry on behalf of His people. Her instructions: Queen Esther must serve the one who she knows hates her people. Esther must treat Haman, the hangman, with honour. Esther must show love to the man who hates her people. 

God expects those of you who will be used greatly to be able to love greatly and to be able to serve greatly.  

In loving and serving, you will echo the heart of God. For just as Jesus died for the thieves on the cross and the ones who pierced Him through his side with a sword, then Jesus also died for the Hamans of this world.  Who knows? Perhaps that act of love and respect would win Haman.

Well, you know Haman still hated the Jews, and Haman still desired to kill all of God’s people. Too bad!  Salvation was possible for Haman too.  

Choices

At the end of the day, and indeed until the days turn into eternity, it will always be the choice of God-haters whether to lift up the name of Jesus or turn down the name of Jesus.

What is your role? Your role of ministry is to serve humanity with the love of God. They may love you back, or they may want to stab you in your back.  Your job? Serve.

For when you serve in the manner that is godly, God will come through and meet your every need. Serve and show the people that God’s love covers a multitude of sins. 

Respice finem. n