The Prophets and the Teachings of Jesus: Ouch
Lamentations 3:30 • . . . but to give one’s cheek to the smiter, and be filled with insults.
Matthew 5:39 • But I say to you, do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also.
This is perhaps the most controversial of the teachings of Jesus: the command to turn the other cheek.
We are familiar with this verse, but seldom apply or even defend it. It goes against everything we have been taught and our natural inclination to self-defense, to “stand your ground.”
Yet, like Jesus, we are called to suffer for the redemption of the wrongdoer. The power of God is manifested when the victim overcomes the victimizer, but not through reciprocal violence.
Mother Emanuel Church in Charleston, South Carolina, and the Amish community in Nickel Mines, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, showed us the way when forgiveness was chosen over revenge in the wake of horrific shootings. And it was faith in Christ Jesus as Lord that made this impossible teaching possible.
Lord, may we be so committed to your word that we are willing to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice. Amen.