What It Means to Be Christ Like
Seeing the Radical Love of Jesus Through Fresh Eyes
This week is exciting for me because we get to examine how people treated one another in antiquity and just how radical Jesus’ teaching truly was.
It’s easy to miss the shock factor now—after all, for 2,000 years, we’ve lived in a world shaped by His words. But when Jesus said, "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you" (Luke 6:27), He wasn’t just teaching kindness. He was rewriting the script of human relationships.
In Jesus’ time, love wasn’t extended to enemies. The norm was retribution, honor for honor, insult for insult. Yet here comes Jesus, flipping the natural order on its head—not asking for passive tolerance, but calling for active, self-giving love. Imagine how radical, even offensive, that must have sounded.
And yet, it’s this teaching—this one small, transformative idea—that changed the world. Jesus' followers embraced it, and over centuries, His ethic of love reshaped how communities, families, and even nations treated one another.
This week, we get to sit at Jesus’ feet and hear this revolutionary call to love again. I'm frankly quite excited for this week. If you look at Luke you will see I jumped over that version of the Beatitudes. I did a series on that last year in church and if you are interested I will research the date and point you to the videos.
Oh - and the following week I will be away. Not sure yet if I will write one big blog before I head out of town or not. (probably yes....)
This week is exciting for me because we get to examine how people treated one another in antiquity and just how radical Jesus’ teaching truly was.
It’s easy to miss the shock factor now—after all, for 2,000 years, we’ve lived in a world shaped by His words. But when Jesus said, "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you" (Luke 6:27), He wasn’t just teaching kindness. He was rewriting the script of human relationships.
In Jesus’ time, love wasn’t extended to enemies. The norm was retribution, honor for honor, insult for insult. Yet here comes Jesus, flipping the natural order on its head—not asking for passive tolerance, but calling for active, self-giving love. Imagine how radical, even offensive, that must have sounded.
And yet, it’s this teaching—this one small, transformative idea—that changed the world. Jesus' followers embraced it, and over centuries, His ethic of love reshaped how communities, families, and even nations treated one another.
This week, we get to sit at Jesus’ feet and hear this revolutionary call to love again. I'm frankly quite excited for this week. If you look at Luke you will see I jumped over that version of the Beatitudes. I did a series on that last year in church and if you are interested I will research the date and point you to the videos.
Oh - and the following week I will be away. Not sure yet if I will write one big blog before I head out of town or not. (probably yes....)
Monday: Loving the Unlovable
NT Scripture: Luke 6:27
OT Scripture: Exodus 23:4-5
Ok - so most of you know I am a former Marine - that means I spoke two languages - English and Cursing. Now I was lucky. Halfway through my career I realized that one single word (you know which one I mean) did not need to be a noun, verb, adjective, preposition, past-participle or even an interrogative. For me cursing was a sign of poor vocabulary and a sloping frontal lobe. I still see it that way. However, in antiquity - cursing actually had a purpose - and not a good one. (I told you this week will be fun!)
Historical Context
In the ancient world, curses were not just insults—they were tools of power. To curse someone was to call divine or supernatural forces against them, often as an act of vengeance or justice. Public honor was everything, and curses were common in disputes, rivalries, or even wars. For example: (I found this fascinating...)
Now we need to consider the context and times of Jesus. In this context, Jesus’ words were revolutionary. Responding to a curse with a blessing wasn’t just countercultural—it was disarming. To bless someone who curses you was to refuse participation in the cycle of hate and vengeance. - I can imagine it was a times even comical!
But there was a bigger reason - It was choosing to reflect God’s mercy rather than human retaliation.
Jesus' teaching wasn’t theoretical.
The early Church lived it—and it changed the world. During Roman persecutions, Christians were often slandered, imprisoned, and even martyred. Yet they prayed for their persecutors, often blessing those who cursed them.
These acts of love in the face of hate didn’t just shock their enemies—it planted seeds of transformation. Many persecutors became Christians after seeing this radical love in action.
Even in the Old Testament, Job sets an example of refusing to curse his enemies. He states that he never rejoiced in their misfortune or allowed his lips to invoke harm on them. Job understood that righteousness isn’t just about outward actions—it’s about the posture of the heart. Jesus takes this deeper, showing us that the ultimate expression of love is not just withholding curses but actively speaking blessing and praying for those who mistreat us.
I remember one time when I casually mentioned that I never used that certain word. My fellow Marines taunted me and said - of course you do. I simply asked them to recall a time they had ever heard me use it. Their eyes got wide as they pondered back and then they said "You're @#&% right!" It was a small victory. I'll take it.
Reflection for Today
Let’s be honest: this teaching feels impossible. How do we bless the coworker who spreads lies about us, the family member who constantly criticizes, or the stranger online who insults us? If you are on Facebook - how do you do it? I had to get off of it. I now only log in from time to time when I see a message to me.
Why - Because, our first instinct is often to fight back, to defend ourselves, or at least to wish them ill in return. That is not Christian like - but we can be anonymous can't we. But we are not anonymous to God!
Jesus shows us a new way. Blessing those who curse us is not about passivity—it’s about transformation. When we refuse to curse back, we’re breaking the cycle of hate. And when we pray for those who mistreat us, we invite God into the situation, trusting Him to bring justice, healing, and peace.
Think about this: the early Church didn’t grow because of its power or wealth. It grew because people saw how radically different Christians were—how they loved their enemies, forgave their persecutors, and blessed those who cursed them. That same love can change the world today, starting with us. We can do this - even one at a time! Embrace the change!
Reflection Question:
Lets do some hard work today - Who is one person in your life who has hurt you or spoken against you?
How can you pray for them and speak God’s blessing over them this week?
NT Scripture: Luke 6:27
OT Scripture: Exodus 23:4-5
Ok - so most of you know I am a former Marine - that means I spoke two languages - English and Cursing. Now I was lucky. Halfway through my career I realized that one single word (you know which one I mean) did not need to be a noun, verb, adjective, preposition, past-participle or even an interrogative. For me cursing was a sign of poor vocabulary and a sloping frontal lobe. I still see it that way. However, in antiquity - cursing actually had a purpose - and not a good one. (I told you this week will be fun!)
Historical Context
In the ancient world, curses were not just insults—they were tools of power. To curse someone was to call divine or supernatural forces against them, often as an act of vengeance or justice. Public honor was everything, and curses were common in disputes, rivalries, or even wars. For example: (I found this fascinating...)
- The Roman World: Romans used curse tablets—small pieces of lead inscribed with words asking the gods to harm enemies. These were buried in graves or thrown into sacred springs, symbolizing the curse reaching the spiritual realm.
- The Jewish Tradition: While curses were condemned in Jewish law (Exodus 22:28), they were still culturally understood as a way to call down God’s judgment on wrongdoers. Even in the Psalms, we see cries for God to “curse” the wicked (Psalm 109:6-19).
Now we need to consider the context and times of Jesus. In this context, Jesus’ words were revolutionary. Responding to a curse with a blessing wasn’t just countercultural—it was disarming. To bless someone who curses you was to refuse participation in the cycle of hate and vengeance. - I can imagine it was a times even comical!
But there was a bigger reason - It was choosing to reflect God’s mercy rather than human retaliation.
Jesus' teaching wasn’t theoretical.
The early Church lived it—and it changed the world. During Roman persecutions, Christians were often slandered, imprisoned, and even martyred. Yet they prayed for their persecutors, often blessing those who cursed them.
- One famous example is Stephen, the first martyr. As his enemies stoned him, Stephen prayed, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60). His response mirrored Jesus on the cross, who also prayed for His executioners.
- Another example comes from Polycarp, an early Church leader. When he was arrested and sentenced to death, he prayed for the very soldiers who carried out his execution, blessing them even as they lit the flames.
These acts of love in the face of hate didn’t just shock their enemies—it planted seeds of transformation. Many persecutors became Christians after seeing this radical love in action.
Even in the Old Testament, Job sets an example of refusing to curse his enemies. He states that he never rejoiced in their misfortune or allowed his lips to invoke harm on them. Job understood that righteousness isn’t just about outward actions—it’s about the posture of the heart. Jesus takes this deeper, showing us that the ultimate expression of love is not just withholding curses but actively speaking blessing and praying for those who mistreat us.
I remember one time when I casually mentioned that I never used that certain word. My fellow Marines taunted me and said - of course you do. I simply asked them to recall a time they had ever heard me use it. Their eyes got wide as they pondered back and then they said "You're @#&% right!" It was a small victory. I'll take it.
Reflection for Today
Let’s be honest: this teaching feels impossible. How do we bless the coworker who spreads lies about us, the family member who constantly criticizes, or the stranger online who insults us? If you are on Facebook - how do you do it? I had to get off of it. I now only log in from time to time when I see a message to me.
Why - Because, our first instinct is often to fight back, to defend ourselves, or at least to wish them ill in return. That is not Christian like - but we can be anonymous can't we. But we are not anonymous to God!
Jesus shows us a new way. Blessing those who curse us is not about passivity—it’s about transformation. When we refuse to curse back, we’re breaking the cycle of hate. And when we pray for those who mistreat us, we invite God into the situation, trusting Him to bring justice, healing, and peace.
Think about this: the early Church didn’t grow because of its power or wealth. It grew because people saw how radically different Christians were—how they loved their enemies, forgave their persecutors, and blessed those who cursed them. That same love can change the world today, starting with us. We can do this - even one at a time! Embrace the change!
Reflection Question:
Lets do some hard work today - Who is one person in your life who has hurt you or spoken against you?
How can you pray for them and speak God’s blessing over them this week?
Tuesday: Blessing Those Who Curse You
NT Scripture: Luke 6:28
OT Scripture: Job 31:29-30
Oops, We Got Ahead of Ourselves!
Well, friends, sometimes even the best-laid plans take a little detour. Yesterday, I got so excited to tell you I was a reformed “profanite” (no – it’s not a word) that I jumped ahead to today’s scripture on of blessing those who curse you. And while it was a great reflection (if I do say so myself), it seems we may have jumped the gun a little. That theme was actually meant for today.
But hey, life is messy, and so is faith sometimes, right? So, with a smile and a little divine grace, we're flipping the script. Today, we’ll focus on Loving the Unlovable, the theme that was intended for Monday.
Think of it as a chance to double down on love this week—because the world can always use more of it.
Historical Context: A World of Divisions
In the ancient world, relationships were defined by loyalty to your own tribe, family, or nation. Outsiders were often viewed with suspicion, and even within families, divisions and rivalries could create deep rifts.
Jacob and Esau weren’t just brothers—they were twins. Yet even in the womb, their relationship was marked by struggle (Genesis 25:22). That struggle continued into adulthood, with Jacob tricking Esau out of both his birthright and his father’s blessing (Genesis 27). Esau’s anger was so great that Jacob fled for his life, and the two lived estranged for years.
Their story reminds us that even the closest relationships—those of siblings, friends, or spouses—can be fractured by betrayal or misunderstanding. But it also shows us the healing power of love, grace, and humility.
Another example of family division comes from Joseph and his brothers. Driven by jealousy, Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery and lied to their father about his death (Genesis 37). Years later, when Joseph was in a position of power in Egypt, he had every reason to retaliate. Yet he chose to forgive, saying, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good” (Genesis 50:20). His love and mercy not only reconciled his family but preserved their future during a time of famine.
Cultural Divisions: Beyond families, cultural boundaries also created deep divides. Samaritans and Jews avoided one another despite their shared ancestry, and Romans viewed non-Romans as inferior. In this fractured world, Jesus’ teaching to “love your enemies” (Luke 6:27) wasn’t just countercultural—it was revolutionary.
Jesus’ Love Across Boundaries
Jesus didn’t just teach about loving the unlovable—He modeled it. His ministry was filled with interactions that crossed cultural, social, and moral boundaries.
The Samaritan Woman (John 4): Jews and Samaritans despised each other, yet Jesus spoke with a Samaritan woman at a well—a double scandal in His time. Not only did He treat her with dignity, but He revealed profound truths about God’s kingdom, demonstrating that no one is beyond God’s love.
Zacchaeus the Tax Collector (Luke 19): Tax collectors like Zacchaeus were seen as traitors who exploited their own people for Roman profit. Yet Jesus chose to dine with Zacchaeus, an act of love and acceptance that led to Zacchaeus’ repentance and transformation.
Healing the Roman Centurion’s Servant (Matthew 8): Romans were the oppressors, and centurions symbolized that power. Yet Jesus didn’t hesitate to heal the servant of a Roman officer, showing that God’s love transcends even political and military divisions.
Jesus built on this foundation, teaching that love isn’t just about refraining from harm but about actively seeking the good of others—even those who have wronged us. Loving the unlovable reflects God’s heart, a heart that desires reconciliation and redemption.
But it’s hard – isn’t it. We carry grudges for so long we sometimes forget why we were mad – but no way Jose are you reconciling. It must have been really bad way back then. And I'm just talking about my wife's side of the family! Just Kidding!
Reflection for Today
Our natural instinct is often to protect ourselves—or retaliate. But Jesus calls us to something greater. Loving the unlovable isn’t about approving bad behavior or forgetting harm. It’s about reflecting God’s love, even when it feels undeserved.
When we love the unlovable:
Reflection Question:
Who in your life feels hardest to love right now? How can you reflect God’s love to them this week?
Think of someone you struggle to love—a family member, a friend, or even an enemy.
Do one act of kindness for them this week, whether it’s a word of encouragement, a thoughtful gesture, or a prayer.
Trust that God can use your love to bring healing and hope.
NT Scripture: Luke 6:28
OT Scripture: Job 31:29-30
Oops, We Got Ahead of Ourselves!
Well, friends, sometimes even the best-laid plans take a little detour. Yesterday, I got so excited to tell you I was a reformed “profanite” (no – it’s not a word) that I jumped ahead to today’s scripture on of blessing those who curse you. And while it was a great reflection (if I do say so myself), it seems we may have jumped the gun a little. That theme was actually meant for today.
But hey, life is messy, and so is faith sometimes, right? So, with a smile and a little divine grace, we're flipping the script. Today, we’ll focus on Loving the Unlovable, the theme that was intended for Monday.
Think of it as a chance to double down on love this week—because the world can always use more of it.
Historical Context: A World of Divisions
In the ancient world, relationships were defined by loyalty to your own tribe, family, or nation. Outsiders were often viewed with suspicion, and even within families, divisions and rivalries could create deep rifts.
Jacob and Esau weren’t just brothers—they were twins. Yet even in the womb, their relationship was marked by struggle (Genesis 25:22). That struggle continued into adulthood, with Jacob tricking Esau out of both his birthright and his father’s blessing (Genesis 27). Esau’s anger was so great that Jacob fled for his life, and the two lived estranged for years.
Their story reminds us that even the closest relationships—those of siblings, friends, or spouses—can be fractured by betrayal or misunderstanding. But it also shows us the healing power of love, grace, and humility.
Another example of family division comes from Joseph and his brothers. Driven by jealousy, Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery and lied to their father about his death (Genesis 37). Years later, when Joseph was in a position of power in Egypt, he had every reason to retaliate. Yet he chose to forgive, saying, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good” (Genesis 50:20). His love and mercy not only reconciled his family but preserved their future during a time of famine.
Cultural Divisions: Beyond families, cultural boundaries also created deep divides. Samaritans and Jews avoided one another despite their shared ancestry, and Romans viewed non-Romans as inferior. In this fractured world, Jesus’ teaching to “love your enemies” (Luke 6:27) wasn’t just countercultural—it was revolutionary.
Jesus’ Love Across Boundaries
Jesus didn’t just teach about loving the unlovable—He modeled it. His ministry was filled with interactions that crossed cultural, social, and moral boundaries.
The Samaritan Woman (John 4): Jews and Samaritans despised each other, yet Jesus spoke with a Samaritan woman at a well—a double scandal in His time. Not only did He treat her with dignity, but He revealed profound truths about God’s kingdom, demonstrating that no one is beyond God’s love.
Zacchaeus the Tax Collector (Luke 19): Tax collectors like Zacchaeus were seen as traitors who exploited their own people for Roman profit. Yet Jesus chose to dine with Zacchaeus, an act of love and acceptance that led to Zacchaeus’ repentance and transformation.
Healing the Roman Centurion’s Servant (Matthew 8): Romans were the oppressors, and centurions symbolized that power. Yet Jesus didn’t hesitate to heal the servant of a Roman officer, showing that God’s love transcends even political and military divisions.
Jesus built on this foundation, teaching that love isn’t just about refraining from harm but about actively seeking the good of others—even those who have wronged us. Loving the unlovable reflects God’s heart, a heart that desires reconciliation and redemption.
But it’s hard – isn’t it. We carry grudges for so long we sometimes forget why we were mad – but no way Jose are you reconciling. It must have been really bad way back then. And I'm just talking about my wife's side of the family! Just Kidding!
Reflection for Today
Our natural instinct is often to protect ourselves—or retaliate. But Jesus calls us to something greater. Loving the unlovable isn’t about approving bad behavior or forgetting harm. It’s about reflecting God’s love, even when it feels undeserved.
When we love the unlovable:
- We reflect God’s grace: God loved us while we were still sinners (Romans 5:8), and we’re called to mirror that grace.
- We break down barriers: Love has the power to heal divisions and build bridges.
- We plant seeds of transformation: Acts of love can spark change in others—and in ourselves—in ways we may never see.
Reflection Question:
Who in your life feels hardest to love right now? How can you reflect God’s love to them this week?
Think of someone you struggle to love—a family member, a friend, or even an enemy.
Do one act of kindness for them this week, whether it’s a word of encouragement, a thoughtful gesture, or a prayer.
Trust that God can use your love to bring healing and hope.
Wednesday: Turning the Other Cheek
NT Scripture: Luke 6:29-30
OT Scripture: Proverbs 25:21-22
NT Scripture: Luke 6:29-30
OT Scripture: Proverbs 25:21-22
Thursday: The Golden Rule
NT Scripture: Luke 6:31
OT Scripture: Leviticus 19:18
NT Scripture: Luke 6:31
OT Scripture: Leviticus 19:18
Friday: Loving Without Expectation
NT Scripture: Luke 6:32-34
OT Scripture: Micah 6:8
NT Scripture: Luke 6:32-34
OT Scripture: Micah 6:8
Saturday: Be Merciful, as Your Father Is Merciful
NT Scripture: Luke 6:35-36
OT Scripture: Psalm 103:8-13
NT Scripture: Luke 6:35-36
OT Scripture: Psalm 103:8-13
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