Memorial of Saint
Barnabas, apostle
(Acts 11:21b-26.13:1-3; Matthew 5:20-26)
Much like Mr. Rogers of the children’s television
program, the personalist psychologist Carl Rogers had a tremendous sensitivity
toward others’ suffering. He used to
give the irrefutable statistic, “One out of every one of us is hurting.” In response to universal suffering all should
be considerate and compassionate. Such a
stance will help the Christian fulfill Jesus’ challenging instruction in
today’s gospel.
Everyone knows that murder is wrong, but few question
“righteous anger” when it spills over into name calling and insult. Jesus calls for a stop to such behavior. He pleads for patience toward those with
emotional difficulties. He does not mean
allowing the disturbed person to act violently. But he does insist that his
followers show respect so that wrongdoers may recognize their faults and
correct them.
We will be reeling in the wake of the George Floyd murder
for a long time. The police involved
seemed to have shown pointedly merciless behavior. We must be careful not to seek revenge on
them. Rather a punishment that fits the
crime should be given along with our prayers for their repentance. We are wise as well to pray that we never
hurt anyone as we carry out our responsibilities.
