Delayed Gratification

I suppose this should not make me feel cranky and put-upon, but today it does. Feeling self-righteous is so satisfying in the short run. Loving my enemies sounds like it will involve loooooong delayed gratification.

"We show love to our enemies by praying for them (Matthew 5:43-48). It seems that God gives us our enemies for just this purpose; He allows them to attack us so that He can use us to pray for them and so secure His blessing for them. When we do that, we most clearly resemble our heavenly Father and copy His dear Son." (Kleinig, 207-208)

"You have heard that is was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." (Matthew 5:43-48)