June 19. Maysie was discussing the issue of bullying and fights at school with her mother. “I find that a really hard thing to respond to. I always wish I had the courage to fight back. And then in confirmation class we were studying the beatitudes and that really made we wonder, why did Jesus make such difficult statements, like “love your enemies.” Surely if someone hurts me, I’ve got a right to defend myself or fight back?”
Reflect, share, act. Scripture:. “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. I say “Do not resist one who is evil. If anyone strikes you on the right cheek turn to him the other also and if anyone would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well.“ Matt 5:38-42. Pope Francis: if a criminal has harmed me or a loved one, no one can forbid me from demanding justice and ensuring that this person will not harm me or others again. This is entirely just, forgiveness does not forbid it but actually demands. The important thing is not to fuel anger, which is unhealthy for our own soul and the soul of our people, or to become obsessed with taking revenge and destroying the other. FT 241-2
Recent Comments