“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

-- Matthew 5:38-42

Prayer
Jesus, following your teaching demands more than we can muster. You know our weakness, our tendencies to hurt others, our deep-seated desire for retaliation or even, at times, revenge. You recognize that without you we cannot turn the other cheek, go the extra mile, or hand over our coat. Thankfully, you promise the gift of your Holy Spirit, the Comforter, who guides, gives us the words, and empowers us to act in ways that show your love, even to our enemies. Amen.