June 18
Scripture: Luke 6:27
Source author: Jessica Talbot
June 18
God’s Love Changes Things But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. —Luke 6:27
On my first day of work as an office supervisor, the staff I was to supervise let me know my presence was unwelcome. They had expected one of their own to be promoted to the position and resented an outsider being awarded the job. In retaliation, the workers banded together to stonewall me at every turn. Baffled and frustrated, I asked God how to work in this hostile environment, since I did not want to resign. The answer came from the Sermon on the Mount—be salt and light and win the people through love. Patiently and consistently, I sought every opportunity to assist, praise, deal fairly, and encourage each one to stretch his or her skills and talents. When my final day of work arrived, a surprise awaited me. The staff had ordered a large cake on which was written, “Good-bye. We will miss you very much!” And beside the cake were personal messages of thanks from each staff member. God had completely transformed our office through the presence of love.
There is no greater power than the love of God working in us. — Jessica Talbot —