Make Room for Enemies
Luke 6:27-36 (NLT)
The arrival of Christ confronts our instinct to shut others out. This Advent season, Jesus calls us to love those we’d rather avoid, to release the bitterness that weighs us down, and to make room for peace where resentment once lived. Before we ever made room for Him, He made room for us. And now He invites us to do the same.
Bottom Line:
Because God made room for us when we were His enemies, we are called to make room for ours.
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1. Real Love Goes First (vv. 27-31)
Jesus calls us to love our enemies and do good to those who hate us.
Real love doesn't wait for someone to deserve it. It takes the first step.
The world says, "Match energy." But Jesus says, "Show grace."
Key Thought: Real love moves first because that's what Christ did for us.
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2. Kingdom Love Isn't Transactional (vv. 32-34)
Anyone can give love when it's easy or when there's something to gain.
God's love gives freely, expecting nothing in return.
Grace doesn't keep score. It keeps giving.
Key Thought: When we love without conditions, we reflect the heart of the Kingdom.
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3. Love Like the Father (vv. 35-36)
God is kind even to the ungrateful and the wicked.
His mercy toward us becomes our model toward others.
To love like the Father means to live with compassion and forgiveness.
Key Thought: When we love like the father, we show the world what Heaven looks like.
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Questions for Reflection:
Who have I stopped making room for in my heart?
What would it look like to show grace instead of holding a grudge?
Where do I need to set healthy boundaries and still choose forgiveness?
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Memory Verse:
“Love your enemies! Do good to them. Lend to them without expecting to be repaid. Then your reward from Heaven will be very great.” — Luke 6:35 (NLT)