Our readings for today are very challenging for us as Christians to follow. It's about things that would normally go against our nature. It's about forgiving those in our lives that we really hate or are at odds with.
In our first reading from Samuel, we hear of the ongoing problem between Saul and David. At this point in scripture, David is running for his life since, out of jealously, King Saul wants to kill David. David has the opportunity to kill Saul, but instead allows Saul to live and shows forgiveness and love to Saul. Because of David sparing the life of Saul, Saul comes to be reconciled with David.
In our gospel for today, Jesus is teaching us to do some very difficult things if we are to be His followers. "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you," "To the person who strikes you, offer your other cheek," "do to others as you would have them do to you," "Stop judging and you will not be judged", and the list goes on and on. I know for myself, there are people in my life that I want nothing to do with. I find it hard to be forgiving and loving towards them. I find them annoying and the type of people I want nothing to do with. These are the people that I am called to love and treat kindly.
Is it easy? No! Is it something that the Lord is calling me to do? Yes.
There's a priest that I know that would preach on this, and say that these words and instructions from Jesus can be very liberating! We don't have to LIKE the people in our lives, but we do have to LOVE them. He would go on further to say that it's always best to love and forgive the people in your live that bother you since holding onto hatred and revenge can be damaging to our spiritual and emotional health. He went on further to say that just because you are forgiving them, you don't need to keep them in your life. Forgive them, but out of your own spiritual growth and well being, keep your distance. Forgive them and love them. But avoid that near occasion of sin by keeping your distance from those who would only upset you and cause you to get angry.
Is it easy to forgive? No! But by doing so and praying for those that need your prayer, you will be able to get closer to God, and be able to fulfill your calling to be a follower of Christ!
From my friend, Nilda: My sentiments exactly. I agree with the suggestion given on how I can forgive and love those who hurt me. I have heard that same suggestion, and find that I can follow the Lord's teachings and still keep my distance, as you say, "in order to avoid the temptation of sin". By relying on this method, I feel reassured that my main concern is to follow the will of God in obedience to His teachings.
ReplyDeleteHowever, beyond forgiving and keeping my distance, I would in humility and in the love of God, be willing to extend my aid at any time, if called upon and able to assist such an individual. My concern will be for his/her safety and livelihood, either physically, spiritually or both, as long as the need is in compliance with the law of God. Another option will be to offer up the person’s special intention in my daily prayers in addition to including him/her among those for God's mercy.
Joy and Peace, Nilda, OCDS
Everything you shared is so true. We do have an obligation to protect our emotional well- being. I was told this by a good priest in New Jersey when I was experiencing emotional abuse from an extended family member. He said I should forgive, love and pray for this person but keep my distance.
ReplyDeletePeace, Bill R.