Gospel Reflection for February 23, 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jesus said, “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

Matthew 5:44

Jesus rejects conventional wisdom and accepted cultural values.  He offers a prophetic alternative to payback; he wants us to make neighbors even of enemies.  He pushes the law beyond simply keeping the rules and being obedient.  He calls us to communion with our neighbors and active commitment to the wellbeing of all—to those who need coats and loans, to the violent from whom we must help others keep safe.