Spiritual Fitness

"Lord, shall we strike with a sword?" (Luke 22:49)
     There is a tendency in most of us to strike back when we are insulted or hurt or threatened by others. Violence has its roots at the dawn of human history when Cain killed Abel. It reached utter absurdity when God the Son was crucified. It now has gone Hollywood and seems to be the main star in most movies. What does our Lord say to us about violence?

"Stop, no more of this." (Luke 22: 51)

"Put your sword back into its sheath, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword." (Matthew 26:52)

"You have heard it 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 the right cheek, turn the other one to him as well." (Matthew 5:38-39)

"Your considerateness, forbearance, fairness should be known to all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:5-7) 

     Let's work on making violence unemployed. 

By: Fr. Bill Ashbaugh is pastor of St. Joseph Parish, Howell
Originally Published: November 2000