Spiritual Message

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Text: Matthew 5:38 & 39
You have heard that it was said, "an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth."   But now I tell you: do not take revenge on someone who wrongs you.  If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, let him slap your left cheek too.
(This is the word of the Lord.)

Someone once said one of their children asked him a question in regards to this scripture verse.  He was trying to point out the disadvantages of an eye for an eye, etc.  He pointed out that violence only causes more violence.  Thus if you slap a sibling you can expect to get slapped back.  The question was: "Well, if you get slapped and you turn the other cheek, what do you do if they slap that one too?"  All that we have in this passage of scripture is that we are to be tolerant of the violent attitudes of others.  Jesus is asking for an attitude of generosity and compassion.  There is no score-keeping and no attempt to get even.

Let us pray:
Loving and compassionate God, help me to follow Jesus' example of love and not the world's example of law.
Amen.

God bless you, and have a good day!

United Church of Christ's Calendar of Prayer