In today's reading from 1 Kings, we see the tragic story of King Ahab and his wife Jezebel. Theirs is a tale of greed, idolatry, and the devastating consequences that follow.
At the heart of their story is a plot to take possession of a vineyard belonging to Naboth, a poor widow's son. Ahab and Jezebel scheme to seize this land, not out of need or necessity, but out of sheer greed. They want what they want, and they're willing to do whatever it takes to get it.
But their actions are not just motivated by selfishness; they're also driven by idolatry. Ahab and Jezebel have turned away from the one true God and worship false gods, seeking power and prosperity through their own efforts. They have forgotten that everything belongs to God, and that their lives are a gift from Him.
The prophet Elijah confronts Ahab about his actions, pronouncing judgment upon him for his greed and idolatry. The consequences are severe: Ahab's family will be consumed by bloodshed, and he will meet a brutal end.
As we reflect on this story, we're reminded that our actions have consequences. When we prioritize our own desires above all else, when we put our trust in earthly riches and power rather than in God, we can expect to face judgment.
But even in the midst of judgment, there is always hope. For even in the darkest of times, God remains faithful, waiting for us to turn back to Him. Elijah's words to Ahab are not just a condemnation, but also a call to repentance. And in deed, Ahab dawns vestments of penance, fasts, and humbles himself before God. God took note of it, and promised not to punish him as he had formerly said he would while he was still in sin. God is a merciful Father.
As Christians, we are called to live differently. We are called to live with gratitude for all that God has given us, and to walk in humility before his presence. We are called to trust in His goodness and provision, rather than seeking to grasp for more than we need. Has he not always provided? Let’s continue to step out of our comfort and safety zones when it comes to our doubts in how God can and will look after us.
In today's Gospel, Jesus continues to invite us to step out of our comfort zones so as to achieve excellence in virtue. More precisely, he teaches us that loving our neighbours and enemies is not just a suggestion, but a commandment. He says, "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."
This is a challenging teaching, isn't it? It goes against our natural instinct to defend ourselves and those we care about. We want to stand up for what is right and fight against those who are wrong. But Jesus is calling us to something deeper. He is calling us to love, not just in words, but in actions.
To love our enemies means to see them as human beings made in the image and likeness of God, just like us. It means to recognize that they are not just obstacles to be overcome, but people who are struggling, suffering, and in need of God's love.
Praying for those who persecute us can be difficult. It may feel like an act of weakness or even foolishness. But Jesus tells us that it is a sign of spiritual strength and wisdom.
When we pray for our enemies, we are acknowledging that they are not our enemies at all, but our brothers and sisters in need of God's transformative love.
As we strive to follow Jesus' teaching, let us remember that loving our neighbours and enemies is not just a feeling or an emotion, but a choice. It is a choice to see the world through the eyes of God, who loves each and every person without exception. May we choose to love with God's love, even when it's hard, even when it's challenging, and especially when it's most counter-cultural. May we, like Naboth and his family, remain faithful to the Lord even the face of the persecution and hate that might come our way. With him at our side, we can accomplish all things, for the glory of his name.
Add comment
Comments
I enjoyed this message very much. It was a very good reminder that we should all keep in mind.