TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE

38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ 39 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. 10 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. 41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

Matthew 5:38-42

DEVOTIONAL

by Stephanie Reloj

I watched the lives of these young triplets, sons of a famous actor in Korea, and saw how they, as three-year-old boys who can’t express themselves well yet, tend to turn a game into roughhousing. However, after a few strikes, they will suddenly gently pat each other, kiss, and hug. They’re so cute! I am so amazed at how they can easily turn a fight into sweet moments. In Matthew 5, Jesus challenges us to reconsider our approach to justice and retaliation. While the Old Testament law permitted limited retribution—”an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth”—Jesus urges us to go beyond mere legalistic justice and embrace a radical ethic of love and forgiveness.

The principle of “an eye for an eye” was intended to establish a standard for justice, ensuring that punishment fits the crime and preventing excessive retaliation. However, over time, it became a justification for seeking revenge, fostering a cycle of violence and bitterness. Jesus flips this notion on its head, teaching that instead of seeking retaliation, we are to respond with love and grace, even in the face of injustice. Rather than retaliating when wronged, we are called to turn the other cheek, go the extra mile, and give generously without expecting anything in return.

However, Jesus also knew that there are times when we must stand firm against evil. He resisted the temptations of Satan and refused to be coerced into fulfilling others’ expectations. Standing our ground against injustice and oppression may sometimes be necessary, but even in those moments, our response should be guided by love and a desire for reconciliation. Consider situations in your life where you have been tempted to seek revenge or harbor resentment. How can you respond with love and grace instead? Take practical steps to forgive those who have wronged you and to extend kindness to them, trusting God to bring about reconciliation and healing.

 

PRAYER