Respectfully. The daily reports and comments on matters affecting Catholic sentiments are disturbing. While some consultation takes place( at some level) the impact on people does not seem to be fully appreciated. Objections are considered natural roadblocks in the path of progress – therefore, are ignored. The pleadings of activists are of as much influence as the cries of first martyrs in the Roman Empire.
We take pride in being a secular democracy; implicitly, a celebration of diversity in a society ruled and controlled by the people. People will differ on many grounds. Unfortunately, unless there is respect for all, the majority will tend to overrule in its own favour. The festering is danger to the avowed ideals of the system. To live one must live to please as we grow in our addiction to laws and a monochromatic vision.
History has liquidised Catholic strengths and the ability to withstand the seas of storms blowing from States and atheism. Laws (corruptions) are being used to usurp rights of individuals – both before and after birth. Today’s scripture passage ( Jn15:18-19) puts us at odds with the “World”. To “hate” the world for legalising abortion, or justifying euthanasia, places a Christian at odds with “Caesar” and the world. On the one hand leading to dangerous feelings of guilt; on the other turning one into a potential Barabbas. Hard times to practise one’s faith. Very few accept and follow Christ. More, seem to ignore or decide against religion all together.
Coming to think of it, times have not changed much from the time of Jesus. There were the believers, the non-believers, and those that turned hostile to Jesus. Jesus responded to the many challenges in different ways to show that the shepherd could take any of the chosen paths to the rich pastures, and He would also return the sheep to the same sheep’s pen. Some he let go (with regrets), as he did in the case of the rich young man, some he sent to the priests for acceptance; some he told to give to Caesar that which is Caesar’s. He told Judas to go do what he must (even speedily).
In the end it becomes a trial for the individual. Where does the individual lie under the circumstances? Morally, the person may decline the new alternatives under the law. But, no one can live in a cocoon of self-righteousness. It is essential that others know our moral principles. We can choose to do that without confrontations. We can also make others aware that the alternative taken is not for convenience, but because of its very inconvenience under the law. That is the way of perfection; the difficult path, the inconvenient path, made convenient by the practice of love. The love that conquered one, and many empires.
Thanks for your great initiative. I need a support in this because I am pretty lazy
I want to thank you for keeping the Mass and the Bible readings. It helps me to read the passages I am very thankful for both.
Would it be possible to put it into a 2 or even 3 year plan? It is just so much for a old guy like me…lol…
It helps me…. Thanks for all.
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