1 Cor 8:1-7, 11-13 / Luke 6:27-38
Having knowledge is certainly a good thing, as it gives us awareness and understanding.
But knowledge in its extremes can be problematic.
A little bit of knowledge can lead to a narrow view and dangerously fundamentalistic.
Too much knowledge can lead to arrogance and pride.
In the first reading, St. Paul says that knowledge is the means to understand the truth of life.
And when that truth is understood with love, then a person will know the ways of God.
So knowledge of the truth, together with love, will build up those who are weak and not to cause a scandal or cause others to sin, as in the case of foods that are offered to idol.
In the gospel, Jesus gave a teaching that is difficult to understand, or to practice.
Jesus said, “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who treat you badly.”
But it is the truth, and that truth can only be understood with love.
Jesus is the truth and He is also the love of God made flesh.
May that knowledge help us to be more compassionate and understanding to others, especially our enemies and those who treat us badly.
Our reward will be great, and we will be sons of the Most High, for He Himself is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked.