In today’s Gospel Jesus gives his authoritative interpretation of the Scripture, the Old Testament. In the Sermon of the Mount Jesus introduces a text of the Old Testament with the words, “You have heard that it was said to your ancestors…” and then gives his interpretation. In today’s Gospel Jesus interprets the “eye for an eye” saying that tries to limit vengeance. In Genesis Lamech claims the right to unlimited vengeance:
“I have killed a man for wounding me, a young man for bruising me. If Cain is avenged seven times, then Lamech seventy-seven times.” (Genesis 4:23-24)
The Old Testament text from Exodus rejects unlimited vengeance and states vengeance should be proportionate, “an eye for an eye.”
“But if injury ensues, you shall give life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.” (Exodus 21:23-25).
While this text puts a limit on vengeance and retribution Jesus in today’s Gospel goes even farther:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil. When someone strikes you on your right cheek, turn the other one to him as well.”
This teaching of Jesus is challenging indeed as is Jesus’ teaching on unlimited forgiveness:
Peter: “Lord, if my brother or sister sins against me, how often must I forgive them? As many as seven times?”
Jesus: “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times.” (Matthew 18:21-22).
Jesus challenges us not to seek vengeance but also to forgive. Jesus’ teaching are not mere or empty words because he himself practiced what he preached:
“When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified Jesus and the criminals there, one on his right, the other on his left. Then Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.’” (Luke 23:33-34).
Today let us strive to follow the way of Jesus by not seeking vengeance or getting back at someone. Let us strive to forgive as our heavenly Father has already forgiven us. Let us make Jesus’ words and way our own.
Image: “05 Jesus teaching by the Seaside (Sermon by the Sea) (color)” by fz1844 is marked with Public Domain Mark 1.0.