March 22.  When young Jerry saw the name of the prophet Jeremiah he wanted to share. “I don’t understand it all,” he said, “ but my prophet seems to be asking for revenge because he is persecuted.  He even calls God a warrior who will definitely win.  I do like that, but you folks never let me have revenge when Joe steals my things. All my games are about warriors and winning battles too.”  Mom felt obliged to help. “There are definitely stories in the Old Testament about God and revenge as we heard quite a lot, but that is not Jesus’ way.  Jesus said, “You have heard it said, an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth, but I say to you …..”  so he is showing us a new way, a way of mercy and love and forgiveness. Don’t you think we should try to copy that?  She added to the more grown-up family members, “the Jews didn’t like his new way either at that time and now, what about the horrific acts happening in the wars between Israel and Hamas or Russia and Ukraine or Sudan and other countries at war? Whose side can God be on?”

Reflect, share. Scripture: Read the relevant scripture passages.  The Lord is with me as a dread warrior, therefore my persecutors will stumble. Jer 20:10-13 Pope Francis:   There are those who seek solutions in war, frequently fueled by a breakdown in relations, hegemonic ambitions, abuses of power, fear of others and a tendency to see diversity as an obstacle. War is the negation of all rights and a dramatic assault on the environment.  Never again war!   FT 258 We must retain the conviction that we need one another, that we have a shared responsibility for others and the world and that good and decency are worth it.  LS 229. LSAP 7. Promoting Community resilience and empowerment,  Pray St Francis Prayer for Peace.    Choose appropriate action.