Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.
Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be conceited. Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.

Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
~ Romans 12:14-21 (ESV)

A ZEN TALE

A big tough Samurai once went to see a little monk. “Monk,” he said in a voice accustomed to instant obedience, “teach me about heaven and hell.”

The monk looked up at this mighty warrior and replied with utter disdain, “Teach you about heaven and hell? I couldn’t teach you about anything. You’re dirty. You smell. Your blade is rusty. You’re a disgrace, an embarrassment to the samurai class. Get out of my sight. I can’t stand you.”

The samurai was furious. He shook, got red in the face, was speechless with rage. He pulled his sword and raised it above him preparing to slay the monk.

“That’s hell,” the monk said softly.

The samurai was overwhelmed. The compassion and surrender of this little man who had risked his life to give this teaching to show him hell! He slowly put down his sword, filled with gratitude, and suddenly peaceful.

“And that’s heaven,” the monk said softly.♦

Peace to you
for heaven’s sake
and the earth’s sake
and your sake
and mine
~ Dan