Loving is the most difficult command Jesus gives us, and the one that really changes the world.
Today is the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday. The Church
remembers King as a pastor and martyr on his birthday, January 15 or on the day
of his assassination, April 4.
One of the readings for his remembrance is from the Gospel
of Luke.
Jesus said, “I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do
good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse
you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone
who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who
begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again.
Do to others as you would have them do to you.”
“If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you?
For even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good
to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. If you lend
to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even
sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, do
good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you
will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the
wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” Luke 6:27–36
The Collect
