“If you come upon your enemy’s ox or donkey that has strayed away, take it back to its owner. If you see that the donkey of someone who hates you has collapsed under its load, do not walk by. Instead, stop and help.”

Exodus 23:4–5 (NLT)

Let’s face it, some commandments are harder to keep than others. The commandment to be fruitful and fill the earth is one that man has done a pretty good job at keeping. But the commandment to love your enemies? Well, that’s a different story!

Now if you live in the city, the commandment to return your enemy’s donkey will not likely cause you much trouble. What are the chances you will see your enemy’s donkey walking downtown? But of course, the application is much broader. The idea is that we are to do good to our enemy–even to the point of caring for his livelihood…or his livestock.

This reminds me of what Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount:

“I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven.”

Matthew 5:44–45 (NKJV)

Is this easy? No way! It’s hard to love your enemies and pray blessings down upon them. We must conquer our feelings of hurt and resentment. We must take off the judge’s robe and gird ourselves with the servant’s towel to wash feet. We must refuse to let evil overcome us, but instead overcome evil with good. These things are hard to do, but they please God, break down walls, and turn enemies into friends.

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