I have a friend that has a huge heart. It is evident to anyone who spends even a short amount of time with her. People are quick to say, “She’s so nice” or “I really like her”. I imagine that’s how people felt when they encountered Jesus. Just as my friend has a special ability to extend her heart to people, Jesus perfectly and consistently extended love to everyone He came in contact with, regardless of how they felt about Him.
I find it’s much easier to love those who love me. . . or at least like me! It’s the “sand-paper” people (those who rub me the wrong way!) in my life that are difficult to love.
Who is the “sand-paper” person in your life? How do you treat him or her? Have you asked God to give you His love for that individual?
The next time that you’re face to face with your personal “sand-paper” person, ask God to give you an extra amount of love and compassion and some words of encouragement for them. Ask Him to lay His heart over your heart. . . it’s a radical thought, but so was the cross!
