In a world that does not always treat others kindly, we may find ourselves struggling with responding in a Christlike manner. However, we’re not alone in feeling the brunt of the world’s attacks. Jesus faced them again and again. Since He was treated in such a manner, Jesus told His disciples they would experience the same thing as they held to their relationship with Him. (John 15:18-19; 16:1-4) Those to whom Peter wrote were also exhorted to not be surprised by such treatment because it came with the territory of being a Christian. (1 Peter 4:12-16)
If we are going to be Christlike, as we read through the Gospels we should take note of how He responded. First of all, what did Jesus teach on the subject?
Jesus exhorted. . .
“(43) You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ (44) But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, (45) so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.” (Matthew 5:43-45 ESV)
Loving and praying for! That is something we have to choose to do because it usually goes against our inclination when being mistreated. So, how did Jesus exemplify it?
When Jesus was being arrested, we read. . .
“(50) And one of them struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his right ear. (51) But Jesus said, “No more of this!” And he touched his ear and healed him.” (Luke 22:50-51 ESV)
And at the time of His crucifixion, we read. . .
“(33) And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. (34) And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And they cast lots to divide his garments.” (Luke 23:33-34 ESV)
Jesus had the ability and the right to retaliate in the most powerful manner, but He withheld that power and was submissive to the plan. Rather than even allowing others to fight for Him, He chose to offer kindness toward the servant who came out with the others to arrest Him. Oh, how I would love to know what continued to go through that man’s mind every time he looked in the mirror to shave and saw the ear that had been cut off and then healed. Also, the one who goes before the Father on our behalf (1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 9:24), prayed for those who sent Him to the cross.
Jesus responded to evil with good because others needed to come to know the goodness of God and His will! As we consider the graciousness of God toward us, we should be willing to extend it to others as well, even making them the subject of our prayers. May we, like Christ, entrust ourselves to the father “who judges justly” (1 Peter 2:23), trusting Him to work things out according to His plan!
Have a great day EXERCISING THE GODLY POWER OF GOODNESS!
Carl
