18.06.2024 – St. Patrick Catholic Church, Largo, FL

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Love Without Boundaries

1Kings 21:17-29, Psalm 51, Matthew 5:43-48

Yesterday we read about how Ahab and Jezebel grossly abused their royal power, committing a heinous crime against the poor Naboth, not just killing him but also dispossessing him of his land. This act of wickedness and inhumanity cried out to heaven for vengeance. Today’s first reading is a continuation of that sad episode. The Prophet Elijah is sent by God to communicate to Ahab and Jezebel that their sins will have its consequences. This reminds us that our actions/inactions and decisions will always have its corresponding consequences whether good or bad. It is important to notice the reaction of King Ahab. He is humble, sober and did penitence for his sins. Even though the law of retribution will take its full course, Ahab’s genuine repentance delayed punishment after performing acts of repentance and penance.

Like the first reading, the Gospel is also a continuation of what we read yesterday. In contrast to the abuse of power by Ahab and Jezebel, the Gospel calls for the spirit of humility and forgiveness. Jesus today teaches us that love should be the guiding force of all that we do. This does not mean that we should ignore justice, rather that even when justice is served, there is always space for forgiveness. Jesus challenges us to love without boundaries. He says, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” To love those who cause us pain, to show kindness even to those who oppose us is not easy.

But why? Why should we love our enemies? Jesus provides a compelling answer: “That you may be children of your Father in heaven.” Our love mirrors our divine roots and family connection; we are God’s children! Like God, who blesses all with sunlight and rain regardless of righteousness, we, as His children, have the honor to emulate Him by showing unconditional love. “Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect”. Being perfect isn’t about flawless performance, it’s about embracing fullness of love without limits or conditions.

Today Jesus gives us three practical guidelines to live out this love without boundaries. First, pray for those who wrong you. No matter how justified our anger at a wrong done to us, we can ask God to forgive the sinner. Sincerely ask for blessings and understanding. Prayer changes our outlook and connects us with God’s heart. Jesus at the cross prayed for his executioners (Lk 22:34). Second, extend acts of kindness: Go the extra mile. Surprise even those who oppose you with unexpected gestures of kindness, such as a smile, assistance, or words of support. Show them the same love you show yourself. Third, practice forgiveness: It is the foundation of limitless love. Let go of resentment. Choose to forgive out of love, not obligation. Let’s emulate our divine parentage by loving limitlessly, just like our heavenly Father.

Today’s gospel concludes thus: “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” The original meaning of “perfect” in Aramaic is “completeness” or “wholeness” – not lacking in what is essential. We pray that God may fill us with his grace so that we may not lack anything we need to do his will and to live as his sons and daughters (2Peter 1:3).

“Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.”