Monday, June 22, 2009

1Jn 2, 9-11 Whoever hates his brother is in darkness

(1Jn 2, 9-11) Whoever hates his brother is in darkness
[9] Whoever says he is in the light, yet hates his brother, is still in the darkness. [10] Whoever loves his brother remains in the light, and there is nothing in him to cause a fall. [11] Whoever hates his brother is in darkness; he walks in darkness and does not know where he is going because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
(CCC 2303) Deliberate hatred is contrary to charity. Hatred of the neighbor is a sin when one deliberately wishes him evil. Hatred of the neighbor is a grave sin when one deliberately desires him grave harm. "But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven" (Mt 5:44-45). (CCC 2862) The fifth petition begs God's mercy for our offences, mercy which can penetrate our hearts only if we have learned to forgive our enemies, with the example and help of Christ.

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