Action. Reaction. Our human nature seems to always have a response ready. Slap…Slap back. But wait! Is that the only response? Isn’t there a better way? Jesus states a whole new way of responding. He gives us new options. He gives us a new direction. He shows what could happen if we break the cycle of reaction. It may cause us some temporary pain…yet, it may cause a real change in the lives of many as a result. We are not to be a ‘doormat’ unless it says ‘WELCOME’ as an entry to the kingdom of heaven. Think about that!
Copy this blog post or the link to this site to give this verse to family, friends, and neighbors. Ask if they have ever been slapped and if they thought to ‘turn the other cheek’. Ask about the circumstances and how that made them feel. Tell them about any of your personal experiences that may apply. Let them know that Christians see things differently and that we want to promote the love of Christ in all that we do. Then Take Time For God’s Word at 5:39 am or pm and as you see your cheeks in the mirror, then recall this verse. Put an alarm time on your phone for 5:39 pm with the title ‘Turn the other cheek’ as the reminder for this verse. ‘Love your enemies’... ‘pray for those who persecute you’... ‘turn… the other cheek’... ‘the last will be first, the first will be last’… and so many other words from Jesus tell us that we are to live VERY differently from the rest of the world. That is our calling. That is our mission. That is our privilege. Think of it often. Live it out every day!
As we end our monthly prayer cycle, we remember to pray for that one person that you know who desperately needs Jesus. You see it in their eyes. You see it in their lives. You hear it in their voices. They are seeking a better way. They want forgiveness. They want to start new again. AND… that is what Jesus can give them. Let them know that you pray for them. Offer to pray with them. Support them. Help them through the tough times. Be a friend. You are the blessing they have prayed for. Be that blessing to them. Pass it on through the little things that make a BIG difference in your loving care for others.
