If one were to watch even 10 minutes of news in the US this summer, one would quickly discern we are at war. We face enemies within our own borders.  At times it seems as though we are having a civil war.

The following verse has stood out to me during this season and also as we have worked and are still working with Muslim refugees – some of whom could be potential terrorists.

“But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men.”  Luke 6:35

What is the most effective weapon against terror?  I once heard a bullet can stop a heart but it can’t change it.

God’s love surely can.  The love of God has changed my heart – many times.  It has changed countless others hearts through the ages.  We at MercyWorks are seeing God’s love change the heart of terrorists.

A friend of mine from Dallas told me a story that happened very recently.  This friend knows nine languages and has lived in various parts of the world.

She was in a bookstore in Dallas and overheard a conversation in another language.  She quickly realized one of the men talking was an ISIS recruiter who was trying to recruit a young man to join their ranks.

My friend intervened and spoke with both men for hours.  She shared the powerful love of Jesus with these men boldly but lovingly. Both men ended up praying right there in the bookstore, committing to follow Jesus!

She commented that ISIS followers are more aggressive than we Christians. I am challenged to continue to share this ever powerful love that surely can change any heart.

This verse, as it relates to the times we are living in here in the US with racial tensions, violence, etc., also presents questions for all of us.  Is there any hate in my heart toward any one?  Do I love all people?  Am I kind to all people – even toward ungrateful and evil men?

Help us, dear Lord, to be like you and to love like you do. Help up to be consistently kind. May our hearts be ignited to share your unfailing love with others we encounter everyday.