Hate vs love

Luke writes his Gospel after the persecutions and hatred against the early Christians had already begun. But like every Word of God, this word of life is also addressed to Christians of all times and to their daily lives. It contains a warning and a promise. It refers more to the present life, whereas this applies more to the life to come. The two are systematically fulfilled in the history of the Church and in the personal vicissitudes of those who seek to be a disciple faithful to Christ.

For those who follow Jesus, it is normal to be hated. It is the fate of the Christian who is consistent in this world. And as Paul reminds us, no one should be deceived: “All who will live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” Jesus explains: “If you were of the world, the world would love you as you love what is yours; but because you are not of the world, and because I have chosen you from the midst of the world, therefore the world hates you. “

There will always be a contrast between the Christian ‘s way of life and the way of life of a society that rejects the values ​​of the Gospel. It is a contrast that can lead to an open or veiled persecution, or an indifference that causes suffering. We are already warned.

“And ye shall be hated of all because of My name”

When we receive hatred in exchange for the love we seek to give – in a way which seems incomprehensible to us, out of any logic or common sense – such a retribution should not disorient us, scandalize us, cause us alienation. This is nothing more than the manifestation of that antagonism that exists between selfish man and God . It is also the guarantee that we are on the right path, the same as the Master has gone through. So it’s a time to rejoice and rejoice.

And this is what Jesus wants: “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you […] for my sake. Rejoice and be glad. “ Yes, that which should prevail in the heart, at that hour, is joy, that which is the characteristic note, the distinguishing mark of true Christians in all circumstances. Even though – and we can not forget that – there are also many friends , brothers and sisters of faith, and their love is a source of consolation and strength.

“Not one hair of your head shall be lost”

There is also the promise of Jesus : “Not even a hair of your head will be lost.” What do these words mean? Jesus takes up a proverb from Samuel and applies it to the final destination of his disciples. He assures us that while there are real sufferings-real difficulties because of persecution-we must feel ourselves entirely in the hands of God. He is a Father to us, knows us fully and never leaves us.

If Jesus affirms that no hair on our head will be lost, it is because He wants to give us the certainty that He will take care of every concern, even the smallest, regarding our lives, those who are dear to us and everything that matters for us. How many known or unknown martyrs have found, in Jesus’ words, the strength and courage to endure deprivation of their rights! They have overcome divisiveness, marginalization, contempt, which can sometimes lead to violent death. They were certain that the love of God allows all things for the good of His children !

Good dissipates all evil

If we feel hatred or violence, if we feel helpless in the face of arrogance, we already know the attitude that Jesus pointed out to us: we must love enemies , do good to those who hate us, bless those who curse us, pray for those who mistreat us .

You have to go on the counterattack and win the hatred with love. How? Being the first ones to love, and to be careful not to “hate” anyone, not even in a hidden or subtle way. Because, deep down, this world that rejects God needs Him, His love, and is able to respond to His call.

Concluding: How can we live this Word of life ? Being happy to find ourselves worthy of the hatred of the world, which is a guarantee that we are following Jesus more closely, and show, with facts, that we put love there, right there, where hatred springs.

Source: http://www.focolares.org.br/ via Cancaonova.com