Monday, 20th Week of Ordinary Time

Matthew 5:21-26
The Daily Office

Do you sometime wonder what practical application the Beatitudes have in your life?  How the heck am I supposed to be “poor in spirit” anyway?  Look no further than the first of the “antitheses” in which Jesus quotes the Jewish Law, then applies the outward requirement to the inward motive of the heart.

When we are angry at our brother and tempted to take action against him, isn’t that the time for us to recognize that we ourselves are “poor in spirit,” subject to the same failings, and liable to the same God of judgment.  Then we can recognize that Jesus has forgiven our bother just as he has forgiven us, and that we both belong in “the kingdom of heaven.”

Of course, you have been wronged, and you “hunger and thirst for righteousness.”  So, you can and should go to your brother, not to consign him to judgment, but to seek reconciliation, and then you shall both “be satisfied.”  And if reconciliation is not forthcoming, because your brother proves to be stubborn?  You have every right to protect yourself by withdrawing from him.  But remember that, “Blessed are the merciful” by letting go of your need for vindication.  For when you show such “mercy,” you can rest; assured that to you shall mercy also be shown. 

It is said that the wheels of justice turn slowly.  The same can also be said of God’s justice.  But turn it does, toward the everlasting light of resurrection.  God has reconciled you to himself through his Son, Jesus Christ, and so he will reconcile you and your wayward brother, in good time.