Something that has been hard for me to accept in life, is that not everyone has my heart. Although I am reminded not to let that, change mine. There are so many kind and wonderful people in the world. There are also those that are self-centered and unkind too. Or some that maybe are not trying to be unkind, they just haven’t learned how to see pass themselves. It can be hard to have a big heart. I think of Jesus and how kind he stayed, even until his last breath. Even as people persecuted him, tortured him, spat at him. He still didn’t let it change His heart. He still died for those people too. Maybe their hearts would be changed for the better. Although, whether they did or they didn’t have changed hearts, he didn’t let it leave him bitter. He didn’t let their cruelty, change His goodness and His purpose or most importantly, His love. The Bible says the most important thing to do is love God, this also helps us to love better too. The second most important is also loving people, because he knew that we all needed love. Of course, from Him, but also each other. He also knew, it wouldn’t always be easy to give love to some people. Although He knew the importance of it. Not everyone is going to have the same heart, the same level of care and kindness towards others. Although it’s our duty, to be the light and show love, even if they seemingly seem to lack it. When we are discouraged when encountering those whom are unkind, may we see them as Jesus did. May we continue to love in adversity. For we will know that even if their hearts are not in the right place, ours is. May we be like Jesus and choose love and kindness. May we love God first and always remember to love others second.

Erin Fitts-Brower 

Luke 6:27-28 NIV

“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.

John 13:34-35 NIV

 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Matthew 22:37-40 NIV

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”