We all encounter circumstances, people, and conversations that scare us. It is natural for our defenses to automatically kick into gear, preparing us to fight or escape at any cost. This is why I am amazed whenever I meet people who instead manage to pause their defense reactions long enough to engage their curiosity and seek to better understand their partner in conflict. This kind of dialogue is truly courageous.

What's one thing I can do this week to imitate Jesus' attitude toward me, proactively and creatively loving and blessing all kinds of people - even my enemies?

In this video, PCI's Rick Love speaks to the Society of Vineyard Scholars, telling a story that we have been inspired by many times over. It is the story of a Christian pastor and a Muslim imam, in the midst of violence-ridden Nigeria, who find reconciliation and friendship with one another and now work together for peace between Christians and Muslims in their own county. We hope this story will inspire you as it has us.

Jesus’ teaching about loving our enemies is at once the most radical and the most ignored command in the Bible. Many Christians think this command reflects an unrealistic and idealistic standard, so they figure out ways to dodge it.