August 16, 2021

If you are tired of wrangling with someone, one option is to take off your boxing gloves and hoist up the white flag. Not only is it easier on you, you will have crossed into Jesus Land.  Here’s a quote from Thomas Merton to help you along the way.

“The beginning of love is to let those we love be perfectly themselves, and not to twist them to fit our own image. Otherwise we love only the reflection of ourselves we find in them.” 

Graphically, Jesus takes the point one step further. “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well.” (Matthew 5:38-40)

Crazy stuff, isn’t it?!

“O God, because without you we are not able to please you, mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule our hearts; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.” (Proper 19 – BCP p. 233)