7th Week in Ordinary Time : Sunday 23rd February 2020

“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in Heaven.” All three readings teach us how to witness to Christian love. As Christians, we are fully aware of the commandment to love all people, including our enemies.

However, since the modern pattern of human relationships is mostly based on interest, we may be tempted to follow suit. Even if, in this environment, our enemies are supposed to be hated.

To live as authentic Christians, we need to be witnesses to the unconditional love of God, who always loves us even in moments when we isolate ourselves by sinful acts — either unconsciously or even when fully aware and bragging about it.

Jesus gently invites us to remember that, just like our enemies, we are also sinners in need of love and compassion. After being aware of the hurt caused by them in our lives, we are called to pray for them that they may change wholeheartedly. At the same time, as we pray for them, we should also pray for the courage to love them just as Jesus Himself loves us though we are sinners.

Lord Jesus Christ, grant us, we pray, the grace of the courage to love and pray for our enemies.