In Spite Of

There are some events, activities and actions that are optional in life. These are events, activities or actions that may be a good idea but at the end of the day they are not necessary. Extended warranties, attendance at high school reunions, office parties, church banquets, family gatherings and more can be counted among these. These may be expectations placed on us by others, our families, friends and employers, yet can be avoided if we are reluctant to participate. Matters of the heart are not included in this category. When it comes to dealing with others emotionally and spiritually there is a non-negotiable, and that is when it comes to love. We are to, “Owe nothing to anyone—except for your obligation to love one another. If you love your neighbor, you will fulfill the requirements of God’s law.” Romans‬

How do we accomplish such a daunting assignment? What does it take for us to love others in spite of their mistreatment of us or their dislike of us or even if their actions have been unloving, unwelcoming and even unholy. We are to love them “in spite of”. No matter what the actions of others may be, love is always the right response. Jesus challenges us in this area. He says, “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies; do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” Luke 6:27-28. As we can see, love is radical especially the kind of love Jesus is talking about. Loving others does not require you to put yourself in harms way. Abuse of any kind is not acceptable and is one of the areas where loving and relating to someone from a distance is best. We may have a friend that has an addiction that clouds their judgment, or a parent that is verbally abusive or a coworker that has an anger problem. We can love them in spite of their behavior yet set boundaries when interacting with them. Love is not an option but is expected especially for Christian disciples. We cannot spread the Gospel and hate others.

We must walk in the Fruit of The Spirit by demonstrating love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Loving others “in spite of” is an act of faith that requires us to be full of grace and mercy. These attributes can only be manifested through our relationship with God. We can live, love and learn from the experiences that come our way. Loving others like we love God and ourselves can feel strange and is countercultural but it can be done when we rely on the strength of our faith and remember the love we have received, in spite of our faults and failures.