Reflections for MONDAY, 11th Week, Ordinary Time.
By
Fr. Aloysius Santiago sdb
Rector and Parish Priest, Bidar
Today's Gospel Verses
Matthew 5:38-42
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
Today's Reflection
To take the path of least resistance means to take the easiest and convenient way.
It could also be the smartest way out of a difficult situation.
It also sounds like a neat way without getting into too much trouble.
What Jesus said in the gospel sound like the path of least resistance.
But the way that Jesus is saying is certainly not an easy or convenient way out of a difficult situation.
In fact the way that Jesus is saying goes against our instinct of revenge and retaliation.
So Jesus is not saying that we take the path of least resistance in order to avoid trouble or difficulty.
Jesus is teaching us the way of love and forgiveness.
Those who believe in the power of love and forgiveness will walk the way of Jesus.
There can be resistance against love and forgiveness, and those who believe in Jesus will walk that way.
Today we celebrate the Feast of St Antony of Padua…
… one of the most loved Saints, all over the world.
He is popularly invoked by those who have trouble finding lost objects.
But in our own day, he was more popular as the “Hammer of Heretics”…
… due to the powerful witness of his life and preaching.
May the Powerful Intercession of the “Hammer of Heretics” – St Antony of Padua…
…. help us to always be firm and resolute in our Christian Living!
GOD BLESS YOU
Good morning. Have a nice day.
HAPPY FEAST OF ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA