Hi @martere!

Jesus said that because the people had in mind that he should love only his neighbor. And the enemies must hate.
Jesus, however, changes this procedure through the few words:
Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

Be children of your Father who is in heaven, who brings forth his sun rise in evil and good, and sends rain on the just and the unjust.

If you love those who love you, what reward will you have? Do not publicans do that, too?

Resteem
EC