Matthew 5:38-48 (NRSV)
Read Matthew 5:38-48 on biblegateway.com
Verse 38"You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' Verse 39But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; Verse 40and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; Verse 41and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. Verse 42Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you.
Verse 43"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' Verse 44But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, Verse 45so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. Verse 46For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? Verse 47And if you greet only your brothers and sisters, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Verse 48Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Devotion
In this teaching which we refer to as "The Beatitudes," it seems Jesus wants us to live by the old adage, "Kill them with kindness." However, we usually prefer the old adage, "Eye for eye and tooth for tooth." As in so many areas of life, Jesus turns our treatment of others upside-down. When someone cuts in before you on the highway or doesn't notice the green light as fast as you do, I invite us to turn the cheek and go the extra mile. Let the person in the line; allow the person a few seconds of grace until he or she notices the light has turned green.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, give me the spirit of grace that will allow me to understand the person in front of me where ever I might find myself. May your Holy Spirit guide my every step. Amen