Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 5, 38-42

Jesus said to his disciples:
“You have heard that it was said,
An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.
But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil.
When someone strikes you on your right cheek,
turn the other one to him as well.
If anyone wants to go to law with you over your tunic,
hand him your cloak as well.
Should anyone press you into service for one mile,
go with him for two miles.
Give to the one who asks of you,
and do not turn your back on one who wants to borrow.”

Turn the other cheek

1) Tired of turning the other cheek. When we read this gospel, we always remember that we can get tired of turning the other cheek, and can say, “Father, they are already taking me for a fool.” But look, in the course of life you have to be clear about who you are and what you are aiming for. Obstacles and blows will always be there, but they will not destroy you. Look at the martyrs, they have withstood everything, even though many died because of what they believed. Still, they never lost their identities or beliefs, on the contrary, they reaffirmed them. You can be a daily martyr, but do not fear because the sacrifice brings many miracles.

2) Becoming a victim. It is the opposite of turning the other cheek. It is when we try to look hurt in situations where we do not assume our responsibility. We give way so that others speak ill of us. God asks us to take responsibility, face things, and solve them but not to remain victims.

3) Your brother. The world is full of envy, competition and harm. We hurt and betray one another constantly. This is where we should rely on God and look for the supernatural view; we must grow in God and see others as my brethren. This is the cross we must bear in order to reach heaven.