“You have heard 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. You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous.” Matthew 5:38-45
I read that the UN recently passed some resolution to protect religious freedom. Great right? It went on the note the reason for this resolution was the recent burning of the Quran. It said nothing of all the vandalism and destruction of Catholic Churches in America and Europe. Nor did it reference the violent attacks against Catholics in Africa. Say Islam’s prophet’s name in any manner less than reverent and there is outcry – look at the example of the simple comic showing him. But, spit on the Crucifix or blaspheme the Holy Eucharist…silence.
We Catholics and other Christians should be angry and rise up!!!
But, that isn’t what Jesus says is the right path. The cross was something that was reviled from the start and the cross of Christ has much spit and anger cast at it on Calvary.
Jesus says “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Matthew 5:44.
It is hard to see images of a burned church, or a statue of the Blessed Mother painted over or beheaded. It makes one angry to hear of covens looking to steal the species of the Eucharist to defile or to hear a politician preach an hate filled anti-Catholic pro-abortion agenda – then, tell Catholics to shut up and adhere to their words.
Rise up! Rise up and start a revolution!
That is what Jesus did already. He started the rebellion against the world. And, He does call us to rise up. Rise up in love contrary to all the world’s views and even to what feels right inside. It feels like we should go on the offensive and attack the enemies of God. But, God says ‘no…”Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also” (Matthew 5:39).”
Hatred does not overcome hatred and violence is not the answer to violence. Turning the other cheek may get it slapped as well and praying for those who hate and persecute you may seem wrong in the world’s eyes and even your own. But, the Gospel is peace and love. Jesus didn’t call down the wrath of Heaven upon His persecutors or those who hung Him on the cross. No, He prayed for them from the cross (Luke 23:34). And, look at what came of the cross – salvation for all men, even those who spit on Him, drove the nails into His wrists and the spear through His heart.
We are called to rise up in love and pray for those who hate Jesus and persecute us in His Name. Do this if for no other reason then “that you may be the sons of your Father.” Matthew 5:45
How else will the world change? Hatred begets hatred and violence escalated violence. But, forgiveness brings peace and prayers rbi g miracles. Pray for your enemy