Nonviolence
2 CORINTHIANS 6:1-10; PSALM 98; MATTHEW 5:38-42
Jesus said to his disciples “you have heard how it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth, but I say to you, Do not resist one who is evil” (Matt. 5:38-39). Jesus cited this old law called lex talionis the law of tit for tat (Exd.21:23-25). There are three things we must bear in mind about this law.
1. The goal of the law was justice through the limitation of vengeance 2. It was not meant for private individual to extract vengeance; rather it was for judges to access punishment and penalty. 3. It was never carried out literally; otherwise it will reverse justice. This law is widely misunderstood. Let’s be mindful of our interpretations. Misinterpretation does more harm than the sword.
Jesus, the perfecter of the law moves from the old law of limited vengeance to a spirit of non-retaliation. Throughout his suffering and ministry Jesus did not tolerate evil yet he did not apply force and violence. Scripture says; he forgave his murderers (Luke 23:34). In John 18:10 when Jesus was arrested Peter slashed off the ear of Malchus; but Jesus said to him “Peter sheath your sword”. We have right to self defense but do not be quick to use the sword. Jesus tells us today sheath your sword. We must not be violent to restore our world. In the first reading, St. Paul reminds us that in all things we must let the glory of God shine through us so that others may come to believe in God. Martyrdom is real.
LET US PRAY
O God, strength of those who hope in you, graciously hear our pleas, and, since without you mortal frailty can do nothing, grant us always the help of your grace, that in following your commands we may please you by our resolve and our deeds. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
