Yes, Even Them

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Love.
We are
commanded
to love.

But who
should we love?
We ask.

Even them
he commands.

Them.
Those we
whisper
about behind
closed doors.

Those
we cross
streets
to avoid.

The addict.
The liar.
The one
who betrayed
trust.
Yes,
even them.

The neighbor
flying the flag
you condemn.

The stranger
praying
a different
prayer.

The one
who stained
your name.

The one
you block
so you sleep
at night.

Love them.
Not to fix them.
Not to beat them.
But
because
He did.
He does.

Check out the inspiration for this poem:

Luke 6:32–36
Matthew 5:43–48

I often like to write about the gospel as I understood it growing up. I don’t claim to be a preacher, but I like to label these pieces Sunday Sermons. They are a small way for me to pause and reflect on what love and kindness mean to me, which is where I try to center my spirituality.

If you were to write your own version of this poem, who would your even them be? Let’s discuss.

Do you have your own poem you would like to share? Post that in the comments as well.