https://youtu.be/yY3q0aMjgPw

Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you.

Today’s Gospel contains one of the most important Christian teachings, especially in the early Church. Frequently quoted, this teaching sets Christians apart from all others offering the greatest example of Christian perfection. Certainly love of everyone, even enemies, is not easy to achieve. Thus, Saint Augustine said that ‘this is a gift given to the perfect children of God.’

Lord Jesus, may we be inspired by Your example of compassion and empathy, enabling us to listen deeper than angry words… To find what unites us with those whose beliefs are so opposed to our own. Help us to grasp the idea that in keeping so connected with others, we love as Your Father loves us.