From today’s Scripture: “Offer no resistance to one who is evil.”—Mt 5:39

Today’s command from Jesus seems to contradict our human nature. I was taught to stand up for yourself, do not let yourself be bullied. Yet, Jesus invites us to consider standing up for ourselves and resist evil by being nice to the bully. Take the punch, give him what he wants, walk the extra mile. In other words, meet evil with charity. 

Rather than fighting the bully, try another way. Love the bully, give him not just what he asks for, but give him more. After all, Jesus told Peter to put away the sword; he did not call on the angels to defend him but accepted the cross in trust to the Father because of love for us.

Let us pray: Lord, strengthen me to avoid violence in the face of injustice and evil.  Help me respond with charity and kindness, even in the most harsh and unfair moments.

Today’s author is Father Steve Pawelk, Glenmary’s second vice president and novitiate director.

A note from Father Steve: This week’s Gospels are part of the Sermon on the Mount from Mt 5–7. Reading the Sermon on the Mount beginning with the Beatitudes may deepen your experience of the reflections this week.

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