Love your Neighbour – both friends and enemies

In the Scripture reading for mass this weekend, we hear Jesus telling us to love our enemies. Matthew 5:43-48

⁴³ “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbour^[a] and hate your enemy.’ ⁴⁴ But I tell you, love your enemies. Pray for those who treat you badly. ⁴⁵ If you do this, you will be children who are truly like your Father in heaven. He lets the sun rise for all people, whether they are good or bad. He sends rain to those who do right and to those who do wrong. ⁴⁶ If you love only those who love you, why should you get a reward for that? Even the tax collectors do that. ⁴⁷ And if you are nice only to your friends, you are no better than anyone else. Even the people who don’t know God are nice to their friends. ⁴⁸ What I am saying is that you must be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

Reflection
Enemies will always be in a person’s life as well as the allies. Jesus asks us to love and accept our enemies. Do not hold any hatred. Pray for the people who hurt you. Treat people the way you want to be treated — whether it’s an ally or an enemy. Your kindness will be rewarded not only by the Father, but with the kind of peace that comes from letting go of hatred, anger and grudges. Fr Peter Murphy, former Parish Priest of Crookwell, once said ‘when you hold onto anger or resentment towards another person, it takes up rent space in your head – not theirs’.
We can lead by example by showing others that despite hurting, we try to give forgiveness even when it is not asked from us. In a society full of judgemental and close-minded people, may we be different by remembering we are created in God’s likeness and image. May we do what’s unexpected from us, be full of understanding and forgiveness. May we remember

Prayer
Dear Lord,

As you love us, we pray that we will learn to love those who hurt us and broke our trust.

As you forgive us in every sin that we have committed, we pray that we will learn to forgive those who sinned against us.

In this world of chaos, we pray that we will be able to find peace and help each other.

We pray that as you accept us even when we are not worthy, we will accept our enemies and learn that everyone makes mistakes, and no one is perfect.

We pray for a forgiving, understanding and loving heart.

Guide us always to the path going to you and your heaven.

We ask this through Mary’s, Queen and Mother of our School.

Amen

St Mary’s Mini Vinnies Team

Please remember to support our St Mary’s Mini Vinnies team in their efforts to keep the poor and homeless warm this winter. Many thanks to those who have already donated the following winter warmers:

• New thick socks
• New gloves/mittens/beanies
• Warm Coats, jumpers and scarves
• Sleeping bags

 (please make sure any used items are in reasonable condition)

Donations may be delivered to St Mary’s Primary School office.