Catholic Identity

Sunday’s Gospel Reading – Luke 6:27-38 

“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also. If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you. 

 “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that. And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full. But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. 

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” 

This image captures the essence of Luke 6:27, where Jesus teaches us to "love your enemies and do good to those who hate you." It serves as a powerful reminder that love, forgiveness, and kindness can break down barriers of hostility. 

In a world where retaliation often seems like the easiest response to conflict, this image challenges us to rise above our natural instincts and embrace love. The act of offering food and water to someone who once wronged us is a profound expression of mercy. It mirrors the love of Christ, who forgave even those who persecuted Him.