September 11, 2025, Thursday of the 23rd Week in Ordinary Time-C

Colossians 3:12-17

Psalm 150

Luke 6:27-38

“…love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”  Luke 6:27

Lord, these must be the most radical and challenging words in scripture.  How can you expect us to treat our adversaries this way?  Our response to hurt is to see to it that our enemies get what’s coming to them.  We usually sue them.  You didn’t even make a distinction between large and small offences.  This is a very disturbing Gospel especially on the anniversary of the most vile and evil terrorist attack on our country.  Where can I begin to live your words today?  I have a long way to go to live your words.  Well, first I have to admit I can’t do this on my own.  Lord, I must surrender to your grace to even s tart.  I gotta believe you know what’s in my heart.  Heal my pain, soothe my anger, and dissolve my resentment.  Fill me with your power so that I can take small steps, one day at a time, to let go of my hatred and desire for revenge.  Lord, you showed me the way when you forgave the men who nailed you to the cross.  May I follow in your footsteps this day and begin to love and forgive like you.  Amen.