1 Sm 26:2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23/1 Cor 15:45-49/Lk 6:27-38

Imagine this: You’re driving home after a long day, and someone cuts you off, nearly causing an accident. Your heart races, frustration bubbles up, and you’re tempted to honk (or worse). But then, a quiet voice nudges you: "Love your enemies."

If that command from Jesus makes you want to roll your eyes, you’re not alone. Loving those who wrong us goes against every instinct. Yet, in this Sunday’s readings, we find a radical challenge—a call to mercy that upends our usual way of thinking. But what does this mean in practice? How do we love when we feel hurt, betrayed, or angry? Let’s explore what Jesus asks of us and how it can transform our faith and daily lives.

Mercy Over Justice: A Divine Perspective

In 1 Samuel 26, David has every reason to take revenge on King Saul. Saul has hunted him down, trying to kill him. But David refuses to strike when he finds Saul vulnerable, asleep in his camp. "Do not lay a hand on the Lord’s anointed" (1 Sm 26:9). Instead of vengeance, David chooses mercy. Why?

• David understands that justice belongs to God, not to him.

• He trusts that doing what is right matters more than getting even.

• His choice foreshadows Jesus' teaching: mercy triumphs over revenge.

This theme of mercy carries into Luke 6:27-38, where Jesus tells us to love our enemies, turn the other cheek, and give without expecting in return. These aren’t just poetic ideals—they’re commands. Why? Because they reflect God’s nature. Jesus reminds us: "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful" (Lk 6:36).

The Second Adam: A New Way to Live

St. Paul deepens this lesson in 1 Corinthians 15:45-49. He contrasts Adam, the man of dust, with Christ, the man of heaven. Our fallen nature seeks revenge, but Jesus invites us into something greater—a life shaped by mercy, patience, and divine love.

• Adam’s way: Defend yourself. Hold grudges. Seek fairness.

• Christ’s way: Forgive. Show compassion. Give without counting the cost.

This isn’t easy. It’s supernatural. But through grace, we can be transformed, bearing the image of Christ in how we love—even those who don’t love us back.

How Do We Love the Unlovable?

Loving enemies isn’t about ignoring pain or pretending betrayal didn’t happen. It’s about responding differently. Here’s how we can live out Jesus’ teaching:

Pray for Those Who Hurt You 

Jesus didn’t just say, "Love your enemies." He added, "Pray for those who mistreat you" (Luke 6:28). Prayer changes our hearts. It helps us see others as God sees them. Who in your life do you struggle to love? Start with a simple prayer: Lord, bless them and change my heart toward them.

Choose Forgiveness Over Bitterness 

Forgiveness doesn’t excuse wrongdoing; it releases its power over you. The Catechism reminds us: "Forgiveness is the fundamental condition of the reconciliation of the children of God with their Father and of men with one another" (CCC 2844). Holding onto resentment keeps us trapped. Letting go sets us free.

Practice Radical Generosity 

Jesus tells us: "Give, and it will be given to you" (Lk 6:38). Mercy isn’t just about withholding punishment—it’s about actively doing good. Can you show kindness to someone who doesn’t deserve it? Buy coffee for a coworker who annoys you. Offer a kind word to someone who’s hurt you. Small acts soften hardened hearts.

Trust God’s Justice 

We often resist mercy because we fear it allows people to "get away" with wrongdoing. But “Vengeance is mine; I will repay, says the Lord" (Romans 12:19). When we trust God’s justice, we’re free to love without settling scores.

The Challenge: Living Mercy Daily

Living mercy isn’t just a one-time decision—it’s a daily choice. This week, take the challenge:

• Identify one person you struggle to love. Pray for them every day.

• Forgive a past hurt. Even if you don’t feel like it, choose to release resentment.

• Show unexpected kindness. Do something generous for someone who doesn’t expect it.

Mercy isn’t weakness. It’s power—the power of Christ in us. As we strive to love even the difficult people in our lives, we reflect the very heart of God.

Lord, You loved us while we were still sinners. Teach us to love as You do. Soften our hearts, give us the courage to forgive, and help us show mercy, even when it’s hard. Let us reflect Your love in a world that desperately needs it. Amen.