Turning The Other Cheek

"But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you." Luke 6:28-31

A man in New York City gave us a modern-day example to follow, according to this story from NPR. Confronted by a knife-wielding teenager, Julio Diaz handed over his wallet, offered his coat as well, and then invited the mugger to dinner with him. I'm sure many other people have tried this without the happy ending. It worked for Julio, though. (Hat tip: Mark Shea)

Not surprisingly, a Fox News loudmouth named Greg Gutfeld was not impressed. Nor were most of the people who left comments at this post on a New York blog. They make some good points: is taking your mugger really to eat the best way to help him change his ways? Did Julio simply make it easier for someone else to be victimized?

I don't know. What I do know is that the Lord was pretty clear in what He expects from us. Love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you. These are hard teachings. I, for one, conveniently forget about them at the very times I need them the most. Julio's story is a good reminder that turning the other cheek may be the most powerful weapon we have.