Peace of Christ in the Din – Reflection on Matthew 5:38-42
I have learned that God responds in unique ways when we turn the other cheek in the face of evil. Every day, I am still amazed and filled with awe and wonder at how, with prayer, the Lord enables me to push past the complexities in my mind. Thomas Merton quotes: “If you write for God, you will reach many men and bring them joy. If you write for men, you may make some money, and you may give someone a little joy, and you may make noise in the world for a little while.” In my wildest dreams, I could not have envisioned decades ago that I would begin to write (with grace that limited a struggle of a learning disability) about God’s grandeur and putting Christ’s light first. Doing so allows me to witness, reflect, and gather the moments of the peace of Christ in the din of the world. I believe there are always opportunities where, through us, one of His inspired words touches someone who is begging to be free from evil.
Jesus Discourses with His Disciples by James Tissot (full-resolution painting)
More details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Matthew 5:38-42 – Scripture*
Concerning Retaliation
38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; 40 and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; 41 and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. 42 Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on on Matthew 5:38-42 Reflection – Peace of Christ in the Din.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate various forms of expression in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities experience your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Matthew 5 passage.
The Immersive Prayer website follows the guidelines for image web use at the Brooklyn Museum and the Jewish Museum websites.
Primary Lectio Divina word or phrase: Peace of Christ
Page and discussion group on these Lectio Divina daily Gospel Readings.
Discussion group on St. John of the Cross.