The enemy that may not be

“The teacher of religious law replied, “Well said, Teacher. You have spoken the truth by saying that there is only one God and no other. And I know it is important to love him with all my heart and all my understanding and all my strength, and to love my neighbor as myself. This is more important than to offer all of the burnt offerings and sacrifices required in the law.” Realizing how much the man understood, Jesus said to him ‘You are not far from the Kingdom of God’” - Mark 12:32-34


We read the story of Jesus and see the mention of religious leaders - it triggers a reaction in us: “BOO! These were the guys out to get Jesus!” He called them “blind guides”, “hypocrites” and worse.


Yet here Jesus notices something good in this man - He GETS it! Jesus realizes he understands enough to make him close to the Kingdom, perhaps moving closer. Here’s someone we’d expect to be an enemy and yet Jesus identifies him as a potential ally and more: possibly a future friend and brother!


Keep this in mind today. God sees the heart and though our first glance may tell us one thing, maybe God knows something else is going on in their soul. Let’s come out of our defensive corners and dare to believe the Holy Spirit may be working in that person you thought was your enemy.


DIRECTIONS: Spark. Apply breath. Fan into flame. Repeat as needed.