S – But I say to you who listen: Love your enemies, do what is good to those who hate you, ²⁸ bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you

Luke 6:27–28 CSB

O – Commentary:  The *Old Testament specifically commanded love of neighbor (Lev 19:18), but neither it nor Jewish sages commanded love of enemies (although many taught nonretaliation and insisted on leaving vengeance to God).

The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament

  –  Enemy:  ĕchthrŏs, ; hateful ; usually as a noun, an adversary (espec. Satan):— enemy, foe.

The New Strong’s Dictionary of Hebrew and Greek Words 

   – “Love” – agape love – unconditional love.

 *  Jesus is applying the Levitical command to love your neighbor but giving it a new definition.  It was for all people – those who were for or against us.  The true character of God is for all mankind, who he created and loves.

A – Who is your foe today?  While the devil is your adversary that you do spiritual battle against every day, the person in your life that is contrary, challenging and difficult is not.  Each of us has people who go against us.  We need to love them unconditionally with healthy boundaries.  

R – Lord, help me to love each person I come in contact with today.  Let me demonstrate your character in love and compassion while also stewarding the gifts and calling you have given me.