Matthew 5:38-48 NRSVue
38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39But I say to you: Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also, 40and if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, give your coat as well, 41and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. 42Give to the one who asks of you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you.
43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44But I say to you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45so that you may be children of your Father in heaven, for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. 46For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47And if you greet only your brothers and sisters, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the gentiles do the same? 48Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
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Some thoughts on this scripture
Reflection
I am to be as perfect as God the Father! Is Jesus being unreasonable, asking too much of me?
Reflection
Jesus portrays God as a loving and proud Father who sees Himself in me and in each one of his sons and daughters. So He expects of me as a dearly-loved child of his, created in his image, that I will be good to all my brothers and sisters, even my ‘enemies’ and persecutors.
Reflection
I am not to retaliate, but should give, share, lend and go the extra mile.