Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time – February 23rd, 2025
Luke 6:27-38
The Radical Love of Christ
Love is a word we hear often. We use it to express feelings toward family, friends, and even things we enjoy. But in today’s Gospel, Jesus presents a love that is far more challenging – a love that goes beyond our natural inclinations. He calls us to: love our enemies, do good to those who hate us, bless those who curse us, and pray for those who mistreat us. This teaching is radical because it calls us to respond in ways that seem contrary to human nature.
As followers of Christ, we are invited to a new way of life, one that reflects the mercy and generosity of God. This Gospel passage challenges us to break the cycle of hatred and revenge, replacing it with love, forgiveness, and generosity. Let us reflect on the meaning of Jesus’ words and how we can put them into practice in our daily lives.
- Love Beyond Limits.
The world often teaches us that love should be reserved for those who loves us in return. But Jesus says: If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? He calls us to love not just our friends but also our enemies. THIS IS DIFFICULT! How can we love someone who has wronged us?
The love Jesus speaks of is not based on emotions but on action and decision. It is a love that seeks the good of the other, even when it is undeserved. Jesus Himself exemplified this love on the cross praying: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing”. His love is selfless, unconditional, and sacrificial.
Loving our enemies does not mean we approve of their wrongdoings. It means we refuse to be consumed by hatred. Love does not ignore justice, but it seeks peace rather than revenge. It calls us to pray for those who hurt us, trusting that God’s grace can transform even the hardest hearts.
- The Challenge of Mercy and Forgiveness.
Jesus continues His teaching with an even more radical command: “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” Mercy is at the heart of the Christian life. It means showing kindness even to those who do not deserve it.
Think about the story of the Prodigal Son. The father in the parable did not hold a grudge against his wayward son but welcomed him back with open arms. This is the kind of mercy God shows us, and He asks us to extend that same mercy to others.
Forgiveness is not always easy. Sometimes the wounds are deep, and the pain lingers. But holding onto resentment only traps us in bitterness. Jesus reminds us that “the measure you use will be measured back to you.” If we seek God’s mercy, we must be willing to show mercy to others.
Consider the example of St. Maria Goretti, who forgave her attacker before she died, or St. John Paul II, who forgave the man who tried to assassinate him. These saints remind us that forgiveness is possible, even in the most painful circumstances.
- Generosity Without Expecting a Reward.
Jesus teaches another radical principle: Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap”. This verse reveals the heart of Christian generosity. We are called to give not just from our excess, but with a heart that trusts in God’s provision.
The world often tells us to give only when we get something in return. But true generosity does not seek repayment. It reflects the generosity of God, who gives freely to all. When we give with open hearts, whether in kindness, forgiveness, or material resources, God blesses us abundantly.
Consider the story of the widow of Zarephath. She gives her last bit of food to the prophet Elijah, and God provided for her throughout the famine. Likewise, when we give with trust, we never lose. God’s blessings always overflow.
- Living the Gospel in Daily Life.
How do we apply this Gospel to our daily lives?
- Love in Action: Show kindness even to those who do not deserve it. A simple act of love – a kind word, a prayer, a smile – can soften even the hardest hearts.
- Forgive freely: Let go of grudges and entrust justice to God. If someone has wronged you, pray for them and ask for the grace to forgive.
- Give generously: Be charitable with your time, talents, and resources. Help those in need, even when it is inconvenient.
Loving our enemies, being merciful, and giving generously are not easy commands. But Jesus assures us that when we live this way, we reflect the very heart of God.
Conclusion.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus calls us to radical love, mercy and generosity. This is not the way of the world, but it is the way of the Kingdom of God. As we reflect on His words, let us ask for the grace to live them out in our daily lives.
Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, You call us to a love that is beyond our human strength. Help us to love our enemies, to be merciful as You are merciful, and to give without counting the cost. Fill our hearts with Your grace so that we may reflect Your love in the world.
AMEN.