The Upper Room Devotional for 30th April 2023: A Reconciling Dinner

TODAY’S TOPIC: A RECONCILING DINNER

Allison Wilson Lee (Florida, USA)

TODAY’S READING
Matthew 5:43-48

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
With Christ’s strength, I can always respond with love.

Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. – Matthew 5:44 (NRSV)

The young couple who lived below my flat frequently played loud music at night. Sometimes I would ask them politely to turn down their music.

One Saturday, the music was particularly loud. Frustrated, I asked my neighbors once again to turn their music down. The young man refused. “I think you’re obsessing over it,” he responded. Having gotten nowhere, I returned to bed. But I regretted that the conversation hadn’t gone well. I wanted to make peace, so I offered the only thing I could think of — dinner.

When the day of our dinner arrived, the young man, Brody, arrived alone, since his girlfriend had to work. It felt awkward but I pressed on, wanting him to know I held no grudges. After our meal, my relationship with the couple improved. Once, when my car wouldn’t start, Brody helped me get to an appointment on time.

To live out our identity as God’s children, we are called to love even those who don’t love us. Extending kindness toward my neighbors required a willingness to respond with love.

God has placed people in our lives who may challenge our ability to love them. How do we respond?

TODAY’S PRAYER
Dear Lord, loving people who are challenging to us requires more than human strength. Grant us your power to love them as you love us. Amen.

PRAYER FOCUS
Neighbors who don’t get along

• Dr. Charles Stanley 30 April 2023 In Touch Daily Devotional
• Dunamis Seeds of Destiny 30th April 2023 || The Word of God: A Fuel For Faith
• John Hagee (Sunday) 30 April 2023 Live Service
• Joel Osteen Live 30 April 2023 || Sunday Live Service
• DUNAMIS SUNDAY SERVICE LIVE 30 APRIL 2023