Should I love my enemies?

Wait!
What?
But why?
They are the ones who mock me, who curse me, and above all they are the people who are against my existence.
Should I love them instead? And not hate them?
These were the words that kept flashing in my mind when I accidentally happened to read this phrase, “Love Your Enemies”.  It certainly sounds easy and perhaps the best way to do, but it is against my will. To love the people I hate?!
 
Not an easy thing to consider, but a friend of mine told me that kindness and forgiveness can change everything.
 
I asked him, “why should I take it seriously?”
He answered with a smile on his face and said, “Because Jesus told us to…”
As it is clearly written in Matthew 5:44, “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” he added.
Really? you told me to love them and now to pray for them as well? That’s too hard, I said.
No, because you are God’s child. He wants you to be different because kindness and compassion affect other people heartily, he calmly answered.
I sighed and our conversation ended.
 
With his words, I came to the conclusion that it makes sense. I should obey God’s rule in Matthew 22:39, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” They are my neighbors too. I should love them, the way I love God and I love myself with pure intentions.
 
Oh, Lord God, thank you for giving me a friend whom I can surely lean on when troubles and difficulties come. He is an instrument from You for he will not let his friend like me suffer from grudges. He is a good example to me, and extends to the rest of mankind. He is practicing a Christ-like life.  And with that I am so grateful to You, Lord.
In Jesus name, Amen.
 
Be blessed and love your enemies whole heartedly.
/rex