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PAINFUL SNARLS

“But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you,” Luke 6:27-28 (ESV). As a young man I was driving along when an Irish Setter ran into the street from between two parked cars. I didn’t see him quickly enough to avoid contact but I hit the brakes hard and fast. My vehicle only bumped him slightly. I leaped out to check and he was under my van; not seriously hurt but dazed and confused. I reached toward him to comfort him and he and snarled, crawled quickly from underneath the van and ran away. His refusal of help was not personal; he reacted from his pain and confusion. People will often do the same. It can be brutal, but in these moments genuine love is authenticated and shallow love is exposed. Father forgive my snarling resistances to Your loving touch. When others react to me as I have to You please grant me the same patient mercy for them You always extend to me.

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