Everyone’s head nods in agreement when asked if justice makes a society better. Justice is universally acclaimed as a good thing.
Why, then, if there is common agreement about its value do have we such a long way to go in respecting all people and upholding the inherent dignity of every person, especially those among us who are weakest and most vulnerable?
Indeed, Christians are compelled by Our Blessed Lord to live justly each and every day. Far from Jesus asking us merely to imagine a just society, He sets serious obligations for the members of His Church to meet.
First, a word about what justice is not. We are not practicing justice if disregard it happening in the lives of others. Religiosity for the sake of one’s own comfort is a shameful ruse and wrongful injustice. In stark contrast, intentional disciples sincerely seek to imitate Jesus, recognizing those in need along their own way and reaching out to help as they are able.
We are just in God’s eyes to the degree we try to fashion God’s justice among all people.
How is this done in daily living?
Live respectfully toward everyone we meet. Defend the weak, protect the most vulnerable and love the ones deemed by others as undesirable. Speak up for those whose voices are muted. Act on behalf of those needing assistance. Listen more patiently. Notice more readily. Sacrifice more willingly. Love more wholeheartedly.
