TURN THE OTHER CHEEK, A MEDITATION ON NON-VIOLENCE

Almost two thousand years ago, Jesus of Nazareth taught his disciples to respond to hatred with love.

As an antidote to violence, Jesus taught us non-violence. Matthew 5:39: "But I tell you not to resist the wicked one. If anyone strikes you on the right cheek, offer him the other also..."

Today, a third of humanity calls themselves disciples of Christ. However, to what extent do Christians put this basic teaching of the Gospel into practice? As a matter of fact, turning the other cheek may sound ridiculous. However, if we think about it further, it can be revealed as a noble method of resistance. To turn the other cheek means:

• Accepting the possibility of receiving another slap, but it can also startle the opponent, making his arm hesitate to attack.
• Refusing to follow the laws of the enemy : ​​the violent only expects one thing, that is that we copy him in his violence.
• Telling your enemy that he too is capable of kindness. It is the belief that everyone can open themselves to the Spirit of God who is Love and Life. 

"God is Love" writes the Evangelist John (1 John 4, 19). Since God loves us first, we should be the first to take steps to meet our enemies to pave the way for reconciliation. Christians who regard non-violence as madness claim that they are wiser than Christ. Since violence is blind and blinding, it would be wise for all Christians to stop condoning it.

Inspired by the book 'Nonviolence in the Gospel' by François Vaillant.