Radical Mercy
In today’s Gospel, Jesus describes a radically merciful way to treat others, including those who have hurt us in some way. “I say this to those who are listening: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who treat you badly.” Luke 6:27
I frequently remind my children that we are expected to treat those who we may not like as though we do like them. This includes if they took your highlighter without asking, or told the teacher on you, or created a groupchat that excludes you, you still have to be nice to them.
My girls no longer argue that this behaviour is ‘being fake’, in that stroppy way teens have of accusing each other of acting phony, as I can back it up with the teachings of Christ. Sometimes, we do have to fake it. We are asked to love our enemy, and that takes work – so it is ok if the behaviour comes first. Over time, the relationship may improve so much that real friendship becomes possible .
Yes - the description of the behaviour that Jesus expects of us is a tall order. The point is we must try, and in those moments when we succeed in loving our enemies, we experience rich consequences. For example, there is a transformative peace found in letting go of money owed to us, and the peace found in forgiveness is truly a blessing. Yet, despite the rewards, this remains a difficult command.
Practice is key. The more we strive to love others, despite any wrongdoing, the easier it becomes.
In prayer, we can ask for God’s help to live out this important commandment, to shower love and mercy upon our neighbours in the same way that He is loving and merciful to us.
Today's Readings: 1 Samuel 26:2,7-9,11-13,22-23 Psalm 102 1 Corinthians 15:45-49 Luke 6:27-38
Photo credit: contractwerkstatt/Adobe Stock
Source: Seventh Sunday of Ordinary Time
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