The new way

After Matthew 5:38-42 

He sits on that hill,

speaking softly, firmly,

as one with authority

because he is One

with authority. He speaks

of a new path to follow,

a path that is not a choice

but a mandate. Revenge 

is put aside; no more

repayment in kind. In fact,

instead of revenge, now

you respond with mercy,

you respond with love,

you respond in the same way

that you are forgiven. Wrongs

you commit are set aside,

forgiven, forgotten, you are

made new. And you respond

the same way to those who

wrong you.

You forgive.

You forget.

You show love.

You show mercy.

 

Photograph by Benjamin Wedemeyer via Unsplash. Used with permission.