Week 8 (Beginning 17 Feb) Day 1

Matthew 5.38-42

38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ 39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. 41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

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Personal Reflections The norm during Jesus’ day was to exact retributive action in order to assert one’s right. But Jesus came to establish a “greater righteousness”, challenging the people of His kingdom to live out a non self-centred approach in our right relationship with others. As his disciples, we are taught to conduct ourselves in a way that is others-seeking rather than self-seeking, thereby breaking the vicious cycle of violence-begetting-violence. This, however, should not be incompatible with or contradictory to the need to stand up for good and the rights of others or a firm stand for justice in society, albeit in peaceful ways.

As difficult as it may be, in what ways can and will you seek to resolve your present personal conflicts and grievances that will apply Jesus’ teaching, even to the point of forgoing your rights?