Reflection of the week

By Linda Sutton

Posted Feb 15, 2017 in Faith

When I am unjustly accused of wrongdoing, or persecuted for no good reason, I want to react in a way that seems to come naturally. After all, he/she started it! The Gospel turns this natural tendency upside down, demanding that I ‘turn the other cheek’ – not to retaliate, but to forgive (Matthew 5:38-40).

I reflect that wars are fought for many reasons, including to liberate the oppressed, but most often, it seems, in retaliation against some major conflict of interest.

History teaches me that such actions can perpetuate hostility.

Christ calls me to the work of reconciliation.

Prayer

Lord, I remember how you readily forgave those who harmed you, turning the other cheek even from the cross. Steer my thoughts away from revenge, to follow your example. Amen.

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