Have you ever come across that person who you just cannot get along with? No matter how hard you try, you share experiences and try to find connection, but you can't clique with them. You can't connect. What do you do from there? Do you detest them, do anything you can to avoid them and stay clear? What do you do when you have to be with them every day, whether that be at work, or in school, at Church? Jesus tells us that we must Love our neighbour, and to the one who strikes us on the cheek, we are to turn the other cheek. However, it's not always that easy, especially of we are around this person every day.
Today's first reading states:'And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest questioned them, saying, "We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and you intend to bring this man's blood upon us." But Peter and the apostles answered, "We must obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised Jesus whom you killed by hanging him on a tree. God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. And we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him." When they heard this they were enraged and wanted to kill them' (Acts 5:27-33).
The Disciples were teaching the Good News in the name of Jesus, in the name of God, and doing amazing works. However, there were the high priests, who did not agree with this. They spoke out against the disciples, believing them to be blasphemous and absurd in their beliefs. They didn't connect, and so did everything in their power to plot against those who spoke in the name of Jesus. However, the disciples are strong, courageous in the face of the high priests. They tried to share the Good News with them as well, and get them to join in the happiness of Jesus' resurrection, but the council refused to listen, even plotting to kill them. In the face of those we don't connect with, those who plot against us, we must be strong and courageous like the disciples, never wavering in our faith. It is important to stand up for our belief and share the Good news and not hate our enemies, but love them, as God loves us.
Today's prayer comes from 'Catholic Online' a prayer for loving enemies:
Jesus, Prince of Peace,you have asked us to love our enemiesand pray for those who persecute us.We pray for our enemies and those who oppose us.With the help of the Holy Spirit,may all people learn to work togetherfor that justice which brings true and lasting peace.To you be glory and honor for ever and ever.Amen.
