February 24, 2019 the 7th Sunday of Ordinary Time-C

1 Samuel 26:2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23

Psalm 103

1 Corinthians 15:45-49

Luke 6:27-38

“Do not harm him, for who can lay hands on the Lord’s anointed and remain unpunished.”  1 Sam. 26:9

“But rather, love your enemies and do good to them…” Lk. 6:35

Lord, your words today are a lot to digest.  You lay out the behavior of one who is your disciple and it’s a tall order.  The world does not teach or expect what you do.  You call us to act just the opposite.  Instead of revenge you call us to compassion.  Instead of judgment you call us to understanding.  Instead of continuing the cycle of hatred and mistrust you call us to love and forgiveness.  To be honest, Lord, this all sounds good and I know it’s the way you treated people but I don’t know if I can do it.  David had a chance to kill his enemy but he didn’t.   How can I begin to live the way you want me to?  Help me to start with one person who is difficult or who has hurt me.  Show me the path to forgive one person today starting with someone close to me.   Give me the ability to see those around me as brothers and sisters deserving respect and mercy.   I can’t change the world but I can change how I respond to conflict and condemnation.   I totally rely on your help and grace, Lord, to live a life worthy of you.  Amen.