The Daily Office for July 14, 2012
Scriptures
Psalm 117
Deuteronomy 34:1-12
Romans 10:14-21
Matthew 24:32-51
Reading (Psalm 117)
Reflection
A coworker keeps putting you down in front of your friends. A neighbour spreads a false and totally embarrassing rumour about you. Somebody works behind the scenes to cause problems between you and some of members of your extended family. When somebody intentionally does something to hurt or embarrass you, what does it feel like? Not good! You really want to get them back for it. You want to make them pay. But is that God's way? The Bible provides the answer.
By returning good for evil and showing kindness to those who have hurt you, you could actually win them over and cause them to change. This doesn't mean that it's all right to manipulate someone. God wants his children to serve others with a pure, honest, giving heart – no matter who they are.
The next time you face a situation in which someone has hurt you, remember Scripture's guidance. It won't be easy, but it will provide a positive and God-approved outcome. Think of one or more people who have hurt you lately and lift them up to the Lord in prayer. Ask God to bless them abundantly. Ask Him to give you the power and grace you need to be kind to these “enemies.”
Collect for the Day
Father of the eternal Word, in whose encompassing love all things in peace and order move: grant that, as your servant John Keble adored you in all creation, so we may have a humble heart of love for the mysteries of your Church and know your love to be new every morning, in Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.