Readings: Romans 12:5-16, Ps. 131, Luke 14:15-24
“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them” (Romans 12:14)
Yesterday, Jesus told us that when we throw parties, we should invite the poor, the blind, the beggars, etc., since they cannot repay us. Today, St. Paul says we should bless our enemies. This teaching of St. Paul reflects the words of Jesus in Luke 6:29-30: “If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you, and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again.”
A lot of us identify as Christians, but we do not believe in blessing those who persecute us. Even some “Men of God” teach their congregation to bring imaginary guns to church to shoot and kill their enemies. Some Christians even consult with witch doctors and all kinds of demonic cults to deal with whoever offends them. We say we are Christ-like, but when offended, we are so unlike Christ.
Now, the question is: “How do we bless those who persecute us?” Think of the other person as an extension of yourself. Whatever evil you do against another (even if they sinned first against you) comes back to you. We are all one in this universe. St. Paul begins today’s reading by saying, “Brethren, we though many, are one body in Christ, and individually, members of one another.” (Romans 12:5).
You may not like those who hurt you, but at least be kind to them if you are in a position to help them. Be like David, who spared the life of Saul when he had a chance to kill him in his sleep. The good you do to your enemies will come back to you as a reward from God. Do not be like the men in the parable Jesus gave us in today’s Gospel passage, who gave excuses. Sometimes, we want God to understand why we had to deal with those who mistreated us. There should be no excuse. Be good to everyone.
St. Charles Borromeo was born on 2 October 1538, into a noble family. At just 12 years old, he dedicated his life to the Church. Known for his honesty, he retained only enough money for his education and gave the rest to those in need. Despite having a speech impediment, he excelled academically, studying at the University of Pavia and earning a doctorate in both canon and civil law. When he was 23, his uncle, Pope Pius IV, called him to Rome, making him a cardinal-deacon and assigning him essential duties.
Borromeo was a passionate reformer. He prioritised the education of the clergy by establishing schools, seminaries, and colleges. He fought corruption in the church, opposed the sale of indulgences, and promoted the reform of monasteries. He also worked to simplify church interiors, following the Council of Trent’s guidelines to remove distractions from worship.
In 1576, during a severe famine and plague in Milan, Borromeo used his own wealth and even went into debt to provide daily food for thousands of people. His dedication never wavered, even when he faced assassination attempts and resistance from others. Later in his life, Borromeo worked to counter heresy in Switzerland by founding the Collegium Helveticum. Unfortunately, he fell ill and died in 1584 at the age of 46. He was beatified in 1602 and canonised in 1610.
St. Charles Borromeo’s feast day is celebrated on 4 November. He is the patron saint of bishops, catechists, and spiritual leaders, symbolising church reform and unwavering commitment. His legacy lives on in Milan Cathedral, where his shrine stands, and he is often portrayed in art as a humble yet strong servant of God.
Let us pray: Preserve in the midst of your people, we ask, O Lord, the spirit with which you filled the Bishop Saint Charles Borromeo, that your Church may be constantly renewed and, by conforming herself to the likeness of Christ, may show his face to the world. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever. Amen
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saint Charles Borromeo, Bishop. Liturgical Colour: White. Bible Study: Romans 12:5-16, Ps. 131, Luke 14:15-24)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu