Today, Crossroads had the distinct honour of welcoming Amanda Burrows to worship. Amanda is the Executive Director of First United Church on the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver. She and Rev. Cari shared the sermon on the Gospel reading for the day, Luke 6:27-38.

Alternating between story, theological reflection, and close examination of a couple of words in Greek, (“What does this word enemy mean, Minister?”) they shared the sermon time and unpacked these words from Jesus’ sermon on the level ground.

Amanda offered personal testimony on just what it means to her that Jesus has invited us to discern who our enemies are, and then to look for areas of alignment. Even if there is no path to mutual benefit, to find ways to actively work toward healing, change, repair and transformation in our communities.

It is very easy to become what we hate. Jesus wants us to make the effort within ourselves, and in our communities, to overcome hate with love.