St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus, Doctor of the Church

Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven? 

James and John were angry that the people in a Samaritan village had refused to welcome Jesus. They were so angry, in fact, that they wanted to destroy the whole town (Luke 9:54).

What a contrast to Jesus’ reaction! Instead of punishing the villagers, he confronted the disciples. Didn’t they understand what he was trying to teach them? He wanted them to love their enemies and to turn the other cheek (Luke 6:27, 29).

Like these disciples, we often want to retaliate for the hurt or rejection someone has caused us or a loved one. Somehow it makes us feel better to know that the person is “paying” for their actions. That’s our natural inclination, but as always, Jesus calls us to take the high road. He wants us to let go of the urge to get back at someone. He wants us to trust that he is a God of justice and that he will see that justice is done in his own time and way.

And how often does God’s justice look like mercy instead! In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus didn’t just rebuke the disciples for asking if they should destroy the village. He also wanted them to realize that God is merciful. Maybe these Samaritans just needed more time to understand that Jesus was the Messiah. It’s even possible that after Jesus’ death and resurrection, some became his loyal followers (Acts 8:4-8).

In the end, the disciples learned the lessons that Jesus wanted to teach them. As they went out to preach the gospel after Jesus had ascended into heaven, they were slandered and persecuted. Most were martyred. But like Jesus, they didn’t fight back or retaliate. They trusted in God’s justice and mercy instead.

Today, think of a situation where you’ve been tempted to retaliate. Then pray for the person or people who hurt or rejected you. Ask the Lord to be just as merciful to them as he has been to you!

“Lord, help me to love my enemies!”

Job 1-3, 11-17, 20-23
Psalm 88:2-8
Luke 9:51-56