You shall not kill

We sometimes hear the expression, “If looks could kill.” Which means that our hatred towards others can by themselves be deadly. Hatred is born when we perceive or experience hurt from others or when we do not like others, for who they are or what they do.

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It seems not as injurious as killing someone itself, but Jesus, in today's Gospel, underlines that the mere hatred or hating of someone will be dealt with seriously as actually killing is. As a matter of fact, when hatred is not dealt with, it can lead us to do harmful things, even killing someone, as experience has taught us.

The invitation for us, therefore, is to cultivate forgiveness, understanding, love instead of hatred, when we are hurt by others.

Being open to dialogue, being honest with one's feelings, can help rid us of hatred which, in turn, can lead us to do more harmful things. On the other hand, if we choose peace and love, we free ourselves and others from violence and fear and we can grow further.

First Reading - 2 Cor 3:15—4:1, 3-6 [or Is 6:1-4, 8] (Heb 2:10-18)