The Feast of St Anthony of Padua | Monday 13 June 2022

Today is Monday the 13th June, the feast of St Anthony of Padua.

The Choir of Winchester Cathedral sing the Kyrie from William Byrd’s Mass for 5 Voices. Kyrie eleison, Christe eleison: Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy.
Kyrie eleison
Christe eleison

Today’s reading is from the Gospel of Matthew.
Matthew 5:38-42
‘You have heard that it was said, “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.” But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you.

In our reading we hear some very clear-cut and challenging instructions from Jesus. What were your first impressions as you listened to these words today?
Can you remember a time when someone hurt you or wronged you, leaving you longing for revenge or retaliation? What feelings were around for you?
Perhaps you are struggling with a situation like this at present. What might it mean for you to ‘turn the other cheek’ in this situation?

As you listen to the reading again, try to imagine Jesus saying these words to you in person, noticing the grace and generosity he asks of you.
Take a moment to think which of these images most challenges you? Going the second mile, giving away your cloak as well as you coat to someone who asks for it, or giving to everyone who begs from you?
Spend a moment with Jesus to ponder these things together. How might his words make a difference to you or someone else today?

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.