The Cross Before the Crown

I was in church during Adoration not too long ago and there was praise and worship music playing in the background. There was a song talking about a man strapping homemade bombs to his chest. I was thoroughly confused, so I had to continue to listen. The song went on to say that God loves that guy. It went into a couple more situations and the song drew it all back to God and the love He has for all people regardless of their circumstances.
I loved this song and it really brought God into perspective for me. After hearing it, I first wanted to look at my own life. God loves me even though I have made mistakes and stumble.
God loves everyone including the person who cut you off on your way to work and the co-worker who isn't treating you right. Since God loves everyone, then what does that mean for us? It means we must strive to love everyone.
It's really easy to love those who know us, respect us, and care for us, but what do we do about those who don't. We love them because Jesus loves us and we might be the only love they see.
You might be surprised with the response you get when you show love and respect to those who don't show those things to you. Often times they don't know how to respond, and if you are loving, there is no reason for them to be disrespectful or unloving. The response to showing the right kind of love is remarkable.