LOVING THOSE WHO HURT YOU

“Take no revenge and cherish no grudge against your fellow countrymen. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.” –Leviticus 19:18

Mass Readings: February 19
First: Ezekiel 18:21-28;Resp: Psalm 130:1-8;Gospel: Matthew 5:20-26

Jesus was asked: “Teacher, which commandment of the law is the greatest?” (Mt 22:36) Jesus surprised His questioner by mentioning not one commandment but two. He surprised all of Judaism by maintaining that loving one’s neighbor as oneself is the second commandment, and together with the first commandment forms the basis of the law and the prophets (Mt 22:40).

The Biblical context for the second commandment isn’t merely about generally helping out our neighbors or being friendly to them. In Leviticus 19:18, to love our neighbor specifically means not bearing hatred toward them, not taking revenge on them, and not cherishing a grudge against them. So when Jesus was asked to name the greatest commandment, He did not merely add to the first commandment the command to love our neighbor; He also implied a prohibition against hating, taking revenge, and cherishing grudges.

Is there anyone you hate? Do you want to get back at someone? Are you holding a grudge? Have you forgiven from your heart everyone for everything? (Mt 18:35) Do you love your neighbor as yourself by God’s standards? This Lent, be reconciled, forgive, and love your neighbor.

PRAYER: Sacred Heart of Jesus, purify my heart this Lent to love the Samaritans and enemies in my life (Lk 10:29ff).
PROMISE: “Are you not aware that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” –1 Cor 3:16
PRAISE: Praise You, Jesus, Lord of forgiveness and mercy. You had mercy on those who crucified You, and You have mercy on each of us. We adore You.