But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven (Matt 5:44-45)

Does it get any harder or more real than this? This passage goes against what is called ‘human nature’ – we want to strike back against those who have hurt us or ‘our own’. What this passage does is remind us about our real nature. We are made from and for love – since we are all children of God who is love. However, saying it and doing it are separate matters!

The only real way that we will guide the young people in our care on this matter is by our example. When they see us act in a way that includes everyone, that ignores human-made divisions and treats everyone as one, then any words we utter on the subject might have some effect. When we pray for those who only see division, it comes from a place of love: what we say and what we do and what we pray are as one.

Have a great week!
Patrick