If there was football in the time of Jesus, he would have been a quarterback, boy could he call a reverse play when it was least expected. Picture yourself on the mountainside, listening to Jesus and waiting for him to say something against those who are persecuting you. Next thing you know he is telling you to love your enemies. Can you see everyone’s head spinning and hear the remarks. Did he just say love the Romans? He can’t mean the Samaritans, can he? Love tax collectors, seriously??? Love the New England Patriots (sorry I had to throw that in I’m a suffering JETS fan)?

Jesus was teaching them that the Kingdom of God is wherever people are trying to live out the call to love and forgive. To love and forgive in a way that goes beyond just words but that requires action. You see, all are welcome in the kingdom, the least, the greatest, the rich, the poor, and yes those you least expect. You do not have to be perfect to live in the kingdom, but you do have to be willing to try. We need to call on the Holy Spirit to help us find the strength to be more loving and forgiving. Jesus always taught that God is quick to forgive and generous in his love for us, but God also expects the same from us.

The New Testament was written in the Greek language and there were several Greek words for love. Jesus’ use of the word had nothing to do with sentimental love. He was most likely referring to the Greek word Agape. Agape love is selfless and has us wanting what is best for a person.

Pray for those who treat you or others badly. Everyone can use prayers, and those prayers just might change a person’s heart.

As for me, when I am sitting in Met Life Stadium on September 24^th, I will pray for the JETS to beat the Patriots. I am still working on the perfection part; in the old days I would have prayed for some Patriots to get hurt. Now I will pray the Patriots do their best, but that the JETS do better, and no one gets hurt.