June 16, 2025 // Monday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time
Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Gospel: Matthew 5:38-42
Reflect on the Word //
Silverware clanged against the plates, and leftovers were scraped into the kitchen’s tupperware. Dinner had just finished. The resident first grader was recounting tales of his school day to me in the dining room when his mom called out to him to clear his place at the table. As she began the third reminder, his younger sister wobbled to him and put her hand over his mouth. His face turned red in rage. He reached out to cover her mouth, hitting her cheek instead. A cacophony of screams began to resound through the house, and his father ran over. Separating the two children from one other, he shouted, “What is going on here?!” The child yelled, “She hit me, so I hit her!”
Society’s norms declare that “an eye for an eye” (Matthew.5:38) is the right response to injustice. Jesus even begins today’s Gospel reading with an affirmation that these rules of retribution have been oft-repeated as the law of the land. However, He goes on to proclaim, “But, I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil” (Matthew 5:39). This saying provokes a visceral response: How could any reasonable person let one get away with such an offense?! It seems unfair that someone who intentionally seeks to harm should not be met with resistance or penalty. And then, we remember that Jesus knows what it is to be unjustly treated, having been the One Who gave His tunic, walked the extra mile, and gave all the Father asked on His Way of the Cross, all so that we could be forgiven.
In our fallen nature, relationships are ruptured and offenses occur. We, who when left to our own devices constantly strike one another’s cheeks, maintain the dignity of being the Father’s beloved daughters. And so, Jesus saves us. He invites us to acknowledge the hurts and make space for forgiveness within our hearts. He desires that we repair our relationships and return to the family of God. He reminds us that it really is possible that all things are made new.
Relate to the Lord // Where do you need Jesus to make all things new? Ask Him to come.
Senite Sahlezghi is a consecrated virgin for the Archdiocese of Denver. Native to Colorado, she is a first generation Eritrean American, is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a master’s in Counseling Psychology, and serves as the School Counselor for St. John Paul the Great Catholic High School. Grateful to be in a place surrounded by mountains and live music, the greatest privilege of her life remains being called to be Christ’s bride.
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