Most, if not all of us, do not take kindly to being mistreated in life. In fact, most of us are taught by someone directly or circumstances indirectly to stand up for ourselves and our rights or else we will suffer. Most of the time we live life like children on a playground. You hurt me and or my friends, then we hurt you and your friends. You take my stuff, I take your stuff. You break my things, then I break your face. Well, that seemed to escalate quickly, didn’t it? But it always does. Here is the problem, many people who are now adults with real power, real resources, and uncontrolled temper problems are living by playground rules which leads to people getting hurt. Not the bumps and bruises from a playground squabble, but real life-changing or life-ending hurt that cannot be taken back. Jesus, on the other hand, teaches us that to live well in this life is to live well for the Kingdom of God, and that looks very different from the world. (Luke 6:27–31). Jesus says, “But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. And if you lend to those from whom you hope to receive back, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.” (Luke 6:32–36). This life we are to live as part of the kingdom of God in an upside-down life. It is vastly different from what we think we know of or have learned from our earthly human experiences and the influence that comes from those around us. They are often just as broken and hurt as we are and simply trying to get through the day unscathed if they can too. This is a great reminder for us to be kind to others. So, the next time we feel a case of self-righteousness, vengeance, malice, hate, or anger coming on, may our gracious God help us to take a step back and consider how we are to act as the children of the light and not the children of the dark. Remember we are called to love others even when it is uncomfortable and especially when it costs us something. And don’t worry, God will give you great rewards in the end for doing what is just, right, and loving.
The Upside-Down Life
