The Old Testament laws were given primarily for the protection of life and property; proper diet; true worship and limiting retaliation. There was an emphasis on the external forum of observation and judgements made on what is quantifiably verified. Jesus summarised this reality when he addressed the reality of praying, fasting and almsgiving (Mt. 6:1-6; 16-18), all done to attract attention and praise from those who saw these actions. Jesus takes the law and carries it to a new level, not only as an external constraint by the letter of the law, but also as freedom from embracing the spirit of the law. It is legal to limit retaliation, but one must be prepared to go the “extra mile” (Mt. 5:41) of loving, forgiving and blessing one’s enemies (Mt. 5:44). Let us allow the Holy Spirit to guide our lives, so that the bitterness of retaliation may be replaced with the sweetness of love. Lord Jesus, we cannot walk in Your ways and word by our strength. Fill us with Your Spirit, so that our exterior actions and inner disposition may be pleasing in Your sight. Amen.

Blessings,

Fr. Howie

READINGS

http://usccb.org/bible/readings/061520.cfm