Pray for those who persecute you

Gospel

Matthew 5:43-48

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘You have learnt how it was said: You must love your neighbour and hate your enemy. But I say this to you: love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you; in this way you will be sons of your Father in heaven, for he causes his sun to rise on bad men as well as good, and his rain to fall on honest and dishonest men alike. For if you love those who love you, what right have you to claim any credit? Even the tax collectors do as much, do they not? And if you save your greetings for your brothers, are you doing anything exceptional? Even the pagans do as much, do they not? You must therefore be perfect just as your heavenly Father is perfect.’

Reflection:

In commanding us to love our enemies, Jesus reveals God’s unconditional, generous love. Unlike human love—given in return—divine love embraces even those who oppose it. When we pray for persecutors, we step beyond the world’s logic of revenge and align ourselves with God’s heart. This is not weakness, but radical strength—choosing grace over bitterness, and thus growing into the likeness of our Heavenly Father, whose care extends to all.

Question:

In what practical way can I show love or pray for someone I find difficult or who has wronged me?

Prayer:

Loving Father, help me to see others with Your compassionate eyes. Grant me the courage to pray for those who hurt me, and to love without counting the cost. Make my heart more like Yours. Amen.

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