A reflection on Matthew 5:38-48

Busybodyism (=> https://citizentom.com/2008/05/07/busybodyism/) is one of the expressions I use on my blog occasionally. I suppose the rulers of the Roman Empire were some of the most persistent busybodies who have ever lived. With ruthless efficiency and unapologetic terror, they suppressed dissent and ruled over the lives of millions.

What about our day? Our land? We have none who rule that approach the tyrannical madness of Rome. Still, we have innumerable groups who insist that everyone else needs believe, think, and do something their way. Ironically, these groups often pose as being extremely tolerant, and they prove this by yelling and screaming various epithets at their opponents.

Why did the rulers of Rome need to conquer and lord over the world? Why can’t people figure out that schemes to rule others will never will bring them joy? Why are almost none of us without such a flaw? Why do we all have our blind spots? As the author of this post suggests, it seems we need more confidence in our own principles and beliefs. If we have faith — if we are certain we are in the will of our Creator and our Father — perhaps then we can love our neighbors. Perhaps then we can be more patient with our enemies, even misguided busybodies.