Doing Good, Even to Haters

“And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.” (Luke 6:31 ESV)

Every now and again I think I would give better advice than Jesus. I mean, here he is telling his followers to love their enemies and do to others as we would have them do to us. The golden rule. Boy that is rich! Can’t we just use people and and pour hot oil on our enemies? Can’t we just have victory as we define it and not be as the culture would see us, door mats.

But Jesus actually has the better way and he empowers us to live in it. In fact, he became the cosmic doormat so that you could love with an uncommon love. So that you could see the image your haters bear and be gracious to them. So that you could treat other how you wish to be treated. With courtesy, kindness and care.

It seems a hefty burden — to even remember that I can treat people different — but in light of the gospel, that Jesus took on the cross for you, you are now free to live the golden rule. Today be reminded as you read the Word of the call to live different, to live out the love you have received in Christ. And be reminded again of Jesus’ unwavering goodness toward you, his love for you and his power to love the haters.

Let this goodness fill you that some of it might spill out on others today, for Christ’s glory!