LOVE OF OUR ENEMIES (7th Sunday of the Ordinary time Year C)

LOVE YOUR ENEMIES (Reflection for the Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C) On this Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, we are called to reflect on how we live our love for others. Today’s readings urge us to be witnesses of justice, forgiveness and mercy, to live in the hope of the resurrection and to respond with love even in the face of difficulties. Today’s readings offer us an opportunity to examine the way we relate to others, following the example of Christ. In today’s first reading, taken from 1 Samuel 26:2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23, we witness a crucial moment in David’s life. He is hunted by Saul, but instead of taking revenge when he has the opportunity to do so, David chooses the path of mercy and justice. His decision not to kill Saul, despite the injustices suffered, shows a deep understanding of God’s sovereignty and will. David affirms that only God can judge and take revenge. This attitude of faith and respect for life, even that of those who hurt us, invites us to reflect on how often we are tempted to respond to injustice with hatred or revenge. David teaches us that true strength is manifested in the ability to forgive and to act with integrity, even in difficult situations. Then in the second reading that is taken from 1 Corinthians 15:45-49, Saint Paul presents us with a contrast between the earthly man and the spiritual man (the two Adams). The reading reminds us that, as Christ is risen, we too are called to live according to the Spirit. The earthly man is limited by his weaknesses and his sins, while the spiritual man is renewed and transformed by the grace of God. These words invite us to reflect on our identity in Christ: we were created for something greater. Our life must be a reflection of his glory, a sign of hope for the world. We are called to live not according to human logic, but according to divine logic, seeking what is high and pure. In the Gospel of Luke 6:27-38, Jesus offers us one of his most radical teachings: "Love your enemies." Ah, it seems impractical if we think of the human being. But it is a call to unconditional love that is a challenge that goes beyond what is humanly possible. It asks us to remove judgment and condemnation from our hearts, to embrace a mercy that knows no limits. Jesus' words urge us to see every person, even those who hurt us, as children of God, worthy of our love. Generosity and forgiveness become tangible signs of the kingdom of God. In this context, our way of relating to others becomes a reflection of our relationship with God himself. Brothers and sisters, we are called to live a love that surpasses social conventions and human expectations. Today's readings urge us to be witnesses of justice and mercy, to choose forgiveness over revenge, and to embrace our identity in Christ. Let us ask the Lord to give us the strength to respond to injustice with love, to live according to his Spirit and to recognize in every person the dignity that comes from being created in his image. Only in this way can we be true disciples, bearers of peace and hope in the world.