THE BEST WAY TO PEACE
Pope John Paul II was nearly killed by a frustrated assassin. The criminal was put to jail. The Pope, in a surprising gesture, visited his assailant and manifested to him his forgiveness. The Pope wanted to win him rather than lose him, to free him spiritually even if physically he was going to be imprisoned for a long time. Justice does not end with punishment. It should turn into reformation and conversion.
Jesus once told His disciples that they would be known by how they love each other. He knew that their witnessing would be more effective than their preaching. In the Gospel today, He said that love should include one’s enemies — something new to His Apostles’ ears then, and still is a struggle for Christians today.
But Christianity is addition. An enemy converted to the fold is most welcome and a significant victory. It is the task of the Christian to win the enemy, not to annihilate him. Every soul needs to be saved because Jesus died for every soul. Thus, loving does and should not discriminate. As Jesus hung on the cross, His first words were, “Father, forgive them for they do not know what they do.” He could have unleashed His power over His tormentors, but He knew that it would not get them nearer to salvation. Instead, He expressed His love and forgiveness by dying on the cross. He was right. Many who realized His love followed Him. Christian love conquers all!
The Christian way is more persuasive and potent in creating a moral world. Getting even will not lead to the peace and order we so desire. Death penalties will not deter criminals. Loving our enemies is more effective. It has softened many hardened hearts. Love is possible even to an enemy. The goal is to win them, not defeat them, and to make everyone avail of the salvation wrought by Jesus’ death on the cross. The goal is not to let anyone be lost. Fr. Benny Tuazon
REFLECTION QUESTION: Forgiveness is a constant call during Lent. Are you responding to it?
Lord Jesus, grant me the grace to forgive those who have wronged me. And with a humble and contrite heart, I ask for Your forgiveness for my wrongdoings, too.
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