How we are called to be...

We are now in the heart of Chapter 4: Tools of Good Works.  I pray I am ready.  The Christian call is a simple one--but how so hard to live by.  Benedict writes

"Do not repay one bad turn with another" (1 Thessalonians 5;15; 1 Peter 3:9).  Do not injure anyone but bear injuries patiently.  "Love your enemies" (Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:27).  If people curse you, do not curse them back but bless them instead.  "Endure persecution for the sake of justice" (Matthew 5:10).

We are to stay gentle even with those who are not gentle with us.  The Gospels, Sr Joan reminds us, don't talk about winning; they talk about loving.  

We must be prepared  to bear whatever blows it takes for the sake of justice, quietly, gently, even lovingly, with never a blow in return.