19th June 2012 Matthew 5:43-end

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

How have I blanked those last words from my mind? That was how I always held myself to account and that was how I constantly beat myself up and felt worthless. Be perfect; really?

I try my best, I act as best I can; I do not condemn or judge, I help and support; and where I fail, I pray for forgiveness when I fail.

What do other Bible translations say? Most keep the word perfect. But The Message gives me hope

Matthew 5:48
"In a word, what I'm saying is, Grow up. You're kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you."

Live graciously and generously. These are things I can do, these are things I can aspire to.

Thank you God for accepting me in my imperfection. Amen.