Between Stranger and Neighbor
My friends live in terror
My friends live in terror. We weep together over entire families murdered and torn apart. Innocent babies who look like ours. They are all of ours.
My friends live in terror. Triggered by fireworks. They sound like bombs
My friends live in terror. Afraid that may come home to loved ones taken or be taken themselves Taken to Guantanamo Bay like terrorists for the crime of being born in another place Their mortal sin of coming here to work hard and pay taxes.
My friends live in terror. Terribly afraid of losing everything. Losing their jobs as civil servants. Losing their healthcare. Losing their minds. My friends are people who love and care for me. I love and care for them. My friends have enemies who incite terror. Their enemies are my enemies. I’m called to love them all the same? Every neighbor, stranger, and enemy I must love with as much fervor as much as my beloved friends.
This lesson has never been more difficult or more important. The Gospel could not be more clear or more challenging Pray for those who hate you.
Forgive so you will be forgiven. Turn the other cheek. Give generously with no expectation of anything in return.
When I really stop and recognize that my bucket is full and overflowing with God’s gifts I have no choice but to give that love to everyone.
Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for your blessings and this reminder: Giving is an act of resistance. Love is an act of resistance. When nothing else could help- Love lifted me. Amen
Lois Montague