Two Things Can Be True

Jesus taught them, saying: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your [God] in heaven. For [God] makes the sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. – Matthew 5:43-44 (NRSV) 

Jesus tells me to love my enemies. Please note, Jesus doesn’t say that my enemies are really my friends—that would be easier. And it would also just be wishful thinking. Jesus asks me to be more honest than that. A person can be my enemy, someone who is dangerous to me and to those I love. And my enemy is a child of God worthy of love. Two things can be true. And that’s hard. 

We’re in a state of deep political polarization in this country, it’s true. But that doesn’t capture the depth of our reality. I am not here to tell anyone that they don’t have enemies in public life. I am not so naïve as all that. And neither is Jesus. I’ve been on the receiving end of death threats, I’ve had to move out of my home for a time to keep my family safe. I know the difference between a friend and an enemy. And Jesus knows this too. A person can be my enemy, and I am to love them. Two things can be true. 

And if it was coming from anyone but Jesus, I’m not sure I’d be willing to do it. But if there is a path forward for our country, I believe it will require living like two things can be true. 

Prayer
God, help me to follow your hardest teachings.

About the Author
Rev. John Edgerton is Senior Minister and CEO of Old South Church in Boston. He is the 21st Senior minister in the congregation’s over 350 year history.