In our world today, we don’t have to look far to see a lack of respect for human life. War, mass shootings, abortion, euthanasia, and capital punishment make a mockery of what should be a basic principle for us all, every life is precious. Let us keep in mind what St. Paul teaches the Corinthians in the portion of his letter that we hear today. “We shall bear the image of Christ in heaven.” Every human life is precious if only because every life holds the promise of resurrection and the heavenly image of Christ.
Putting the lessons from today’s Gospel into practice is a major challenge. It is tempting to fight back, to be judgmental, to condemn those who do not agree with us. After all, isn’t that what we see online, on TV or practice ourselves on social media or among our family and friends? The key to meeting this challenge is to become as selfless as possible. We must overcome our self-interestedness and choose self-sacrifice, as Jesus himself did. He freely gave his healing power knowing he could not be repaid. He lived without possessions trusting in God’s generosity. He forgave his enemies, even from the cross. It helps to see life as a collaboration, with all God’s children growing and developing in harmony, not as a competition, where we fear that we will not get or keep what is our fair share.
Love, Peace, Joy,
Fr. Bob
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