Is this loving thy neighbor?

[beller19]

I understand that we should “Love thy Neighbor” as thy self but to me that means holding them accountable if they get out of line. We recently moved and have neighborhood children who have stolen from us and now come to our house and mistreat our children by ordering them off their computers and calling them nasty names. I have had to repeatedly remind my children that we do not retaliate when someone is mean to us. We forgive and forget but their abuse continues to escalate and has been ongoing for a couple months now. I have tried to speak with the parents but was met with, “do we have to do this now?” because they were busy. I finally told the neighbor’s children that I didn’t want them playing with my children anymore. I believe this is an escalating abusive relationship and bad things are going to continue to happen. My husband is furious with me. He says I have violated the “Love thy neighbor” tenants of the bible. I don’t think Love the neighbor means “let my neighbors abuse my children, steal from me, and call them nasty names.” Where do I find the answers? There are so many different scriptures that address love and accountability. Please help me.

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Hi,

Scripture doesn’t say to love one’s neighbor and enable them to harm the innocent.
You are absolutely correct. In this instance, it is only by challenging them that you are showing them love. How many people have enabled loved ones to harm themselves with alcoholism and other self-destructive behavior in the name of love? Besides, your children have suffered abuse at their hands. You have an obligation to protect them also.

We are called to apply the teachings from Scripture with COMMON SENSE!

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.