If we love those who love us, what can we gain? We already have their love. On the other hand, if we love those who don't love us, chances are, we may gain more love from more people. And we do something that others cannot do, something that puts us above the ordinary.
The Great Teacher eloquently expressed this principle in these picturesque words.
“And if YOU love those loving YOU, of what credit is it to YOU? For even the sinners love those loving them. And if YOU do good to those doing good to YOU, really of what credit is it to YOU? Even the sinners do the same. Also, if YOU lend [without interest] to those from whom YOU hope to receive, of what credit is it to YOU? Even sinners lend [without interest] to sinners that they may get back as much. To the contrary, continue to love YOUR enemies and to do good and to lend [without interest], not hoping for anything back; and YOUR reward will be great, and YOU will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind toward the unthankful and wicked. Continue becoming merciful, just as YOUR Father is merciful."
-Luke 6:32-36
