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Monday, June 18, 2012

June 18, 2012 – Matthew 5:38-42 – Concerning Retaliation


"You have heart that it was said, “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. But I say to you, do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you.”"

In the gospel today, Fr. Michael Busch emphasized its moral lesson about man’s need for justice quoting the bible verse “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.” The search for justice connotes to the right for revenge and retaliation. He said that we should not resist evildoer or people; do not stand up on bully or to make the first strike. Jesus urges and calls for generous response to anyone who is hurt or goes beyond retaliation to extend love to our enemies. This is a tall order and seems to be impossible and very difficult to do. Jesus never promised an easy life but teaches us how to understand the core of truth, which is love. The cost is high but the rewards are huge.   

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