| First Reading: Psalm: Gospel: | 1 Kings 21:1-16 Psalm 5:2-3, 4-7 Matthew 5:38-42 |
Matthew 5:39 But I say to you, Do not resist one who is evil. But if any one strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also;
I admit that this is one of the hardest passages for me to understand and accept. How do we not resist evil without being an accomplice to it? If we are struck and do nothing are we not condoning the evil act and thereby promoting it?
Well, it probably is more complicated than that. We have the promise of the resurrection, which trumps all logic and philosophy of this world. Second, there is a difference between something done to us, and something done to others. It is in God's nature to rescue his people. Should we not also have that nature? But it is also in his nature to suffer for his people. Should we not also do that as well?
It is complicated and tough to understand, partly because we don't really want to, but I think that above all we must examine our own conscience in these circumstances. We must have righteous intentions and not just avoidance of suffering as our motive.
Father, help me have enough faith to turn the other cheek while at the same time enough courage to act on the behalf of those who are in peril and need help. Help me to discern the difference and to act faithfully and with mercy.
Amen
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