CYCLE II: HOMILY FOR TUESDAY OF 11TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME (2)

CYCLE II: HOMILY FOR TUESDAY OF 11TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

HOMILY THEME: LOVE YOUR ENEMIES

BY: Fr. Benny Tuazon

HOMILY: (Mt. 5:38-42) Tuesday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time.

In today’s Gospel Jesus commands us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. It is an invitation to take the higher ground. It is counter-cultural and goes against reason. This gives us a deeper view and understanding of the Lord and the cost of following Him. Indeed, the Christian makes a difference. But it is not being different for the sake of being one. It is the way to peace and salvation.

The possibility of this command to love our enemies lies in our faith in the Lord. Having paved the way, we should follow. Besides, loving is a decision. It is not dependent on, though influenced by, feelings. We are capable of loving our enemies if we decide to do so.

It is done by parents to their children who disobey and disrespect them. They hate what their children are doing but they remain loving them. The reverse is also true. Some children could not stand abusive and irresponsible parents. Yet, they still regard them and accept them as their parents. The worst child and parents can still be forgiven and loved. It also happens among friends, fellow members of the faith, and even adversaries. When we are more concerned with our relationship with God, others, and personal spiritual welfare, enemies become easier to forgive and to love.

Time and again we have to be reminded that our faith is inclusive and universal. We live and believe with others. Besides being concerned of our salvation, we care for others too. We love our neighbors as we love ourselves.