Day 21

Scripture: Romans 14:17 — “The kingdom of God is … righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”

Clip: Walking the extra mile

Reflection:

“Walking the extra mile” with a Roman soldier was a political, oppressive act. It was unjust. Jesus re-frames it as a “Kingdom” act. The joy here is not in the act itself, but in the Holy Spirit who gives the power to subvert oppression with generosity. It’s a joy that defies circumstance, a radical declaration that our true citizenship and our source of joy cannot be dictated by the powers of this world.

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, my circumstances feel unjust. I am being “forced to go one mile,” and I feel no joy in it. Fill me with Your joy. Give me the supernatural power to “go two,” to subvert my resentment with Your generosity. Let Your Kingdom, not my feelings, rule my heart.

Practice:

Look for one opportunity today to act in a “Kingdom” way — mercy, welcome, justice — and let that be an expression of joy.

From the Catechism (CCC):
“The Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” (CCC 281)

From YOUCAT:
“In Christ’s coming, we already share in the Kingdom; joy is one of its present fruits.” (YOUCAT 304)