“One More Left Cheek” Painting by: Ronald Raab, CSC

Gospel Mt 5:38-42

Jesus said to his disciples:
“You have heard that it was said,
An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.
But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil.
When someone strikes you on your right cheek,
turn the other one to him as well.
If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic,
hand him your cloak as well.
Should anyone press you into service for one mile,
go with him for two miles.
Give to the one who asks of you,
and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow.”

PRAYER:

My Dear Jesus, Source of Mercy,

We are running out of cheeks to turn.

Violence runs like an overflowing river this morning.

Hatred gets under our skin again in our country.

Shooting people cannot be the answer today.

Cheeks are different colors. Eyes see unique perspectives.

Cheek turning is not acquiescing to violence and rage.

Love must be the answer in your command to walk another mile.

Love must bring  our diverse lives together.

Hope must prevail.

We cannot turn our backs on one another.

Cheeks and backs and eyes belong to people no matter what religion, color or identity.

Jesus, help us find our way to love, to peace.

Jesus, kiss us on the cheek that bears the mark of our tears.

Help us go the miles from Orlando to our own hearts.

Amen