“‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” – Mark 12:31

We all know that person. Every word out of their mouth just seems to make your skin crawl. It’s not specifically something they did to you per say, but it’s who they are.

Believe me, when I learned that God calls me to love my neighbor unconditionally, I wasn’t too happy. How on Earth was I supposed to love someone I despised? What I quickly learned though, loving isn’t an option, it’s a requirement.

Jesus loved everyone. He loved the Pharisees and people that convicted him and even loved the men that nailed him to the cross. He didn’t base his love on who’s personality meshed well with his. Jesus died to save everyone; and in God’s eyes, everyone is equal.

I challenge you to love that person you despise and see the changes it makes not only in that relationship, but in your own heart.