Isn't Turning the Other Cheek Unreasonable?

Homily for Monday of the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

At first glance, both readings present us with situations that seem unreasonable and illogical. When Ahab asked Naboth to sell his property for a just price or to exchange his vineyard for another, why did he refuse? Why not accede to the wishes of the king?

In the Gospel today, Jesus suggests conduct that seems totally unreasonable. Who among us is going to voluntarily submit to further maltreatment when struck, or offer to do more that required for people who cause us harm?

On the surface level, these two different situations seem to share their unreasonable character. However, when we delve beneath the surface, we see that there is some logic to the reaction of Naboth and the counsel of Jesus.

In the first instance, Ahab has deviated so far from the Law of the Sinai Covenant that he does not recognize that what he asks of Naboth is diametrically opposed to the commandments of the Book of Leviticus. Naboth, who has remained faithful to the Law, cannot accede to the wishes of this sinful king without violating his conscience. Leviticus strictly forbids giving up the family heritage and the land which God has given to each tribe? It simply was not possible for Naboth to violate his conscience by ignoring the Law.

In the case of Jesus, if we ponder his words, we realize that he is preparing his disciples for his own passion and death when he will be struck by Roman soldiers and forced to carry a cross upon which he will be crucified. He will do this without lashing out against those who persecute him. Of course, as time passes, the apostles will also be called upon to shed their blood for their faith in Jesus.

Jesus, and yes, even Naboth, prefigure the Christian martyrs. God will see to it that justice will be served. In the gift of the Eucharist, we have a foretaste of what God has in mind for those who place their faith and trust in Jesus and the Holy Spirit who has come among us.

Fr. Lawrence Jagdfeld, O.F.M., Administrator