June 14, Monday Weekday

Lord, listen to my groaning. — Psalm 5:2

Mass Readings: 1 Kings 21:1-16 / Matthew 5:38-42 

Turning Cheeks

Years ago someone cheated me out of a large sum of money. I had a choice to make: either take that person to court or forgive him of his debt. I chose to forgive and forget. Although friends and relatives called me a fool, I know I did the right thing. What made my decision easy was the certainty that God’s reward in eternity would be of far greater value than the money I lost on earth. 

In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus advises us to avoid court battles if possible, to turn our cheek and face away from the temptation of retaliation, and to always give more than what is asked. It’s in giving and forgiving that we show the world Christ’s love and draw others to Him so they can experience this grace themselves.

Prayer: Jesus, master of forgiveness, teach me how to avoid temptations of retaliation.