Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: June 17, 2024

Date: Monday of the 11th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  Matthew 5:38-42

Jesus said to his disciples:

"You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on your right cheek, turn the other one to him as well. If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic, hand him your cloak as well. Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go with him for two miles. Give to the one who asks of you, and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

Today’s gospel reading, a passage from Matthew’s witness of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, calls us to put aside the spirits of vengeance and retaliation.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I hold grudges? Do I seek to “get even”?

Praying:

LORD, You are love itself and your mercy endures forever. Created by You, in your image and likeness, grant that we may draw upon the mercy woven within our minds and hearts and set aside the evil desires for vengeance and retaliation upon those who have hurt us. May we live as You have called us to live, forgiving others as we hope they will forgive us and being merciful as You are merciful to us. Amen