From the ArcaMax Publishing, Bible Verses Newsletter:
http://www.arcamax.com/news/bibleverses/s-196503-606805
Love Your Enemies
"You're familiar with the old written law, 'Love your friend,' and its
unwritten companion, 'Hate your enemy.'
I'm challenging that. I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them
bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a
hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are
working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what
God does. He gives his best - the sun to warm and the rain to nourish
- to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If
all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do
that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a
medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that.
"In a word, what I'm saying is, Grow up. You're kingdom subjects. Now
live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and
graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you."
Matthew 5:43-48 The Message