But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil.
In case we are tempted to forget how radical is the gospel to which Jesus calls us here is a reminder. We are quick to add 'within reason' to our reading of this statement. And there is something to that. Even so, Jesus put this into practice. He does so beyond anything we would consider 'within reason' when he allows himself to be crucified for us. We know that we have some right to protect ourselves, to establish firm boundaries, and to not let ourselves be treated as doormats. It is important to know that Jesus did not give himself up to his enemies the first time they tried to kill him. While his disciples did give to the poor they also maintained a moneybag for their needs.
We are called to do what we can for everyone who crosses our path, starting with those closest to us and working outward in concentric circles. The point is that we must not hold on to our goods or our lives for our own sakes. When we hold back a gift it is always so we can make a still greater gift of who we are.
Give to the one who asks of you,
and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow.
It sounds impossible. In practice it looks like it would be painful. And yet only if we practice this genuine charity can we ever experience true freedom.
We are treated as deceivers and yet are truthful;
as unrecognized and yet acknowledged;
as dying and behold we live;
as chastised and yet not put to death;
as sorrowful yet always rejoicing;
as poor yet enriching many;
as having nothing and yet possessing all things.
In order to fulfill our ministry we need to receive the grace of God and allow it to change us. We are drawn toward selfishness. God gives endurance in whatever hardships we face. The Spirit gives us the purity, knowledge, patience, kindness, truth speech, and unfeigned love that allow us to live radically for Jesus. We have the weapons of righteousness at our right and at our left, the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, and the shield of our faith (see Ephesians 6:10), both ready and waiting for us to use them.
Because our task sounds difficult we might want to delay. With Saint Augustine we want to say, "Grant me chastity and continence, but not yet." But if we want to be sure that we do not receive the grace of God in vain now is the time.
In an acceptable time I heard you,
and on the day of salvation I helped you.
Our calling proves impossible by our own strength. It is too radical for anyone living in the flesh. But as we see God bring it about in us we are moved to praise him. This love is how the world is meant to recognize us as the followers of Jesus.
All the ends of the earth have seen
the salvation by our God.
Sing joyfully to the LORD, all you lands;
break into song; sing praise.
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