Safe Space

44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; Matthew 5:44 KJV

This verse both humbles me and gives me hope. If Luke Skywalker can have faith that there is good in his father and take Obi Wan's advice to heart, then I am capable of praying for those who don't like me very much. Luke didn't give in to the dark side. It peaked it's head a little and then he learned.

I too can learn. I am humbled because I know of one person who just doesn't like me..at all...to the point they take it out on those around me. I feel responsible, gutted and utterly bereft at the thought I could have injured someone that much. But did I? Did I cause injury or is it truly them as I was taught to believe growing up? I live my life attempting to make people feel welcome, unjudged and safe around me. But I am only human and it could be I said or did something that made them feel aweful. If so then I am truly sorry. But if not, and I never find out why, then I am to follow this verse and pray for them. It doesn't say I have to like them. I must forgive and pray and love them with God's love. It's not the same thing.

So today I will summon every ounce of the force within me, God's love, and apply it to my prayers for that one. I also pray that if you struggle with this you too can find peace and humility in this verse. Let Jesus' words take hold of your heart. He will honor your prayer to be a safe space.